5 Things to Remain Positive About during Coronavirus
Thursday, 19th March 2020
OUR world has changed dramatically due to the global coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said schools will remain open but events with more than 500 people have been cancelled.
Social distancing is the buzz word. No more handshaking or hugging. Videos on how to wash your hands fill the internet. Those over 70 are urged to stay home.
Amid the grim news, here are five ways coronavirus threat can bring out the best in us.
1. CARE FOR EACH OTHER
This is obvious but, in these times, we've seen some ugly moments of shoppers fighting each other for the last roll of toilet paper. Don't be that person. Share what you have (including soap) and don't stockpile so others miss out. Look out for your neighbours and help the elderly with shopping. If you know someone who works in the medical field, assist them. Walk their dog, mow their lawn. Nurses and doctors are busy and any way we can help goes a long way. Most importantly, if you even think you're sick, self-isolate so as not to spread the virus.
2. GROW FOOD
If you plant lettuce seedlings (Cos lettuce is good this time of year), within a week you'll able to eat it. Plant spinach and other fast-growing vegies. Share the spoils from your garden. This is the time to be alone, or with your family, in the garden. Share the vegies over the back fence with your neighbour. Fresh food is what your body needs right now. Even if you don't have a garden, use pots to grow food.
3. CLEAN YOUR HOME
Doesn't sound exciting but crank up your favourite music and do those jobs around the house that you've been too busy to do. Clean out cupboards, under the house, under the bed. Rearrange your shelves, wash the kid's toys and clean your windows. Wipe your house clean which also adds to the extra hygiene factors needed at this time.
4. REDISCOVER THE SIMPLE PLEASURES IN LIFE
Walking, reading, playing Scrabble, making popcorn and watching a movie on Netflix. The virus is forcing us to slow down and appreciate what we have. Instead of going out, enjoy the night sky, learn the names of the constellations, cook a tasty meal, go through old photos, write a letter to distant family members. Slow down and appreciate the time at home.
5. KEEP A SENSE OF HUMOUR
It is in our Australian DNA to make light of a crisis. Do the right thing but don't forget to see the best in others and revel in how life has a way of flipping us on our heads. Look for the lighter side of things that are going on around you and remember that you are not the only one feeling a bit rocked by this world event so keep in contact with friends & family.