During these times of pandemic, the challenges in life have increased manifold. On the one hand, we are faced with the fear and health issues caused by this invisible virus, and on the other, we are dealing with lockdown and isolation. Living at home, confined within the four walls, being away from friends and family is aggravating the already tense situation, like adding fuel to the fire. This situation is not only formidable but also challenging and scary. In these unprecedented and difficult times, when we are all surrounded by disappointment, despair, doubt, fear, depression, and pain, we must think about how we can bring out the emotions of accomplishment and positivity.
Just like small rivulets and creeks come together to form a big river, we should gather the smallest of happy moments and create greater happiness that can help us tide over the present challenges. Knowing and implementing simple techniques of life management can play an important role. At the physical level, eating healthy food and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can become the basis for a happy life. This can be possible only when we have a regular timetable, starting with waking up to sleeping.
Waking before sunrise has its own charm, and anyone can experience it. However, it requires us to sleep early. Regular exercise bestows a healthy body that is very important to have a happy life. Healthy and favorite food in itself has the ability to elevate one’s mood, and its benefits cannot be ignored. However, we should refrain from eating junk food for the sake of taste because it can have adverse effects on both physical and mental health.
Sound sleep works like a health tonic and rejuvenates both body and mind. At the same time, restless or insufficient sleep makes a person irritable and stressed. Another activity that is helpful in relaxation is spending some time in the lap of Mother Nature. Based on your circumstances, spend some time with nature near your home or elsewhere.
Try always to learn something new every day. This not only enhances your skill-set and personality but also increases self-confidence and satisfaction. In addition, find a way to pursue your passions and interests. This can give a deep sense of joy in life. On the contrary, those who do not utilize time and waste it away will feel that life is a heavy burden. Therefore, it is recommended that you set aside some time every day to analyze life and ponder it. This will create a sense of understanding not only about self but also about life in general.
The present age of electronic gadgets and social media can be a dual-edged sword. Depending on how judiciously one uses this, it can either contribute to a happy or unhappy life. Overuse can lead to chaos in life, while creative utilization can be helpful. Overdose of information on social media can have a negative impact owing to all the false and misleading information that we are bombarded with. This can add to worry and mental stress.
We should learn to enjoy little things in life. For example, listening to a lovely song or music can be very uplifting to the mood. Remembering inspirational quotes or anecdotes that you had read in books can bring perspective and hope during challenging times. Utilize your speech well. Do not speak in a manner that will invite trouble. Misuse of words will not only alienate others but also pollute the atmosphere and create stress among people. Instead of this, be good to others and help whenever and whichever way possible. This can also be a thumb rule for feeling good in life.
Try not to compare your life with that of others. If you are focused on your goals in life, then you can avoid this easily. Always keep the company of good people. Show your gratitude to others. Follow your inner voice and do not heed too much to what others are thinking about you. Stay firm on your path and do what you feel is right. Do not be overly attached to anyone. Let there be only that much attachment so that you will not suffer undue pain when separated.
Be careful about your expenses. Refrain from unwanted spending. This will help you in managing your stress. Use your time judiciously while focusing not just on physical and mental health but also on personal well-being. To achieve this, set aside some time daily to contemplate and weed out unwanted tendencies and habits gradually. Including some time for meditation every day can be very beneficial to gain control over your own self.
Sadhana, Swadhyaya, Sanyama, and Seva are the 4’S’ you should say YES to and integrate into your daily life. Do something meaningful each day and feel a sense of purpose and accomplishment. When problems and challenges surround you, try your best to solve them but also know that not everything will be in your control. Whatever is beyond your control, learn to surrender to the Almighty and pray for the well-being of everyone, and be assured that whatever is happening is correct and your future is bright. Along with this, instead of easy and luxurious life, choose a disciplined and hardworking lifestyle.
We must step out of our comfort zone. We should identify the fears and conquer them one by one. Never delay doing something good. Do it immediately. However, for anything not right, postpone for 24 hours. This will ensure that you think through the wrong decisions and save yourself from unnecessary repentance. Always live in the present. Accept your weaknesses, faults, and imperfections. Time is a great healer. Leave your unsolved and impossible issues to time. Things have a way of getting resolved by themselves; stay calm and composed.
Develop an attitude of being a witness to all that is happening in life. Try to observe and learn. In this way, you can continually strive to solve the challenges in life, rejoice in every small success and accomplishment and lead a life of hope and contentment. This is the only way to tide over the stressful times prevalent today.
Notes:- Sadhana – Devout spiritual endeavor aimed at inner refinement and elevation; swadhyaya – the study of good literature; sanyama – control of senses; and seva – selfless service.
Source: Akhand Jyoti Magazine Sept-Oct 2021