Covid-19 has changed our lives in a very fundamental way, mainly because we don’t experience the daily social dynamics we once knew. From insignificant everyday interactions with people on the street to more intimate get-togethers with friends and family, we are both physically and mentally, isolated.
Social distancing and isolation will surely affect our psychology, as would any substantial change in our ordinary lifestyle. Staying away from people for long periods of time can become boring and even depressing. But it is, as we all know, a very important necessity in order to get through the pandemic with the least damage possible.
So, what can we do in order to turn these misfortunate times into an advantage? To get something positive out of these bleak days? Well, maybe it’s the perfect opportunity to spend some quality time with the one person you may have been neglecting the most, your one true best friend who will always be there for you: yourself.
Being alone does not mean you are lonely
Due to the high tempo of our daily life and the constant information flow from the media, most of us rarely spend calm and uninterrupted time with ourselves anymore. But being by yourself without the interruption of anyone and delving into your thoughts and psyche is actually a very healthy practice for mental stability.
Whether it be the actual practice of meditation, or just clearing your mind by doing something serene that you love such as reading a book, painting, or listening to music, being alone is a perfect way to recharge yourself. Especially when it is done without any external or internal interruption and full immersion into what you are doing at that specific moment.
The practice of living in the moment and being at peace can also be a great help when it comes to dealing with the stress of the pandemic. In most cases, the inner acceptance of everything that “is”, opens a gateway to contentment and acceptance with the world. This, in turn, abolishes any anxiety or stress that you may be experiencing.
In order to help you practice this mindset, here is a selection of books that we think would be very suitable to read, especially during these trying times:
The Power Of Now by Echart Tolle
Famous author and speaker Eckhart Tolle talk about how living in the moment is not just the best, but also the only real way of feeling alive. The book is a worldwide bestseller and considered a beginner’s guide to a peaceful way of living.
The Daily Stoic by Ryan Holiday and Stephen Hanselman
The book is practical decryption of the acclaimed Stoic philosophy. Providing a different meditation method for each day of the year, the book acts as a guide for wisdom, perseverance and as the author puts it: the art of living. The core value of Stoicism is acceptance of all that is happening, which can prove a valuable asset in these hard times.
The Art of Happiness by Dalai Lama XIV and Howard Cutler
Composing a series of interviews and conversations between Dalai Lama and psychiatrist Howard Cutler, The Art of Happiness explores the positives and negatives of daily life, professional realm, relationships, and more.
A great time to get to know yourself better
These books and countless more teachings mainly focus on personal betterment and life of serenity. As with all situations, through meditation, self-awareness, and peaceful thinking, we can turn this otherwise stressful environment into an opportunity for spiritual growth. This way, we can also learn to truly enjoy life and appreciate the blessings we have to their fullest once the pandemic is over. Until then, staying positive is the most beneficial thing we can do for ourselves and for others.
#StayHome #StayPositive
