All
of us are experiencing stress and changes due to this pandemic. We are
sheltering at home or working in risky, but essential jobs. I’m grateful for
doctors and nurses who are treating patients, for grocery cashiers who are
serving everyone, and for teachers who have switched to on-line classes for
students from kindergarten to college. Some people are isolated and alone,
others have lost their jobs. But, it is not the end of the world. Many people
will have a mild form of the infection or no obvious symptoms. We will survive
just as earlier generations, parents, grandparents or great-grandparents,
overcame the dangers and shortages of the Second World War. Listen to Queen
Elizabeth’s message at https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-52176222
I’m
offering a short list of tips based on my knowledge as a scientist and
experience as a university professor.
Don’t
Panic.
Remember, everyone is under stress. Take it easy. You may not be able to
accomplish as much as you hoped.
Stay
Safe. Take
precautions to reduce the spread of the virus. Stay at home if possible. Wash
your hands frequently. Soap and water will kill the virus. Wear a facemask in
public and keep at a safe distance from others. Please leave surgical masks for
medical professionals. They are intended for single-use and must be disposed
after use. Instead, use a simple homemade mask of washable cotton fabric.
Here’s how you can make an easy, no-sew face mask: http://blog.japanesecreations.com/no-sew-face-mask-with-handkerchief-and-hair-tie
Cotton
fabric is best since the virus lingers longer on many made-man fabrics and
plastics. Read a summary of research on how long the virus lasts on different
surfaces at https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/new-coronavirus-stable-hours-surfaces Remember
to wash the mask after each use.
Relax
and Chat.
Social interactions are important for mental health, especially for people
stuck at home. Chat with friends and family by phone or virtual media. Remember
to exercise your muscles rather than staring at a screen all day. Take a walk
or start a garden. Growing vegetables will reduce the need to shop for
groceries. Start a new hobby or revive an old one. I’m reading more than
before.
If
you enjoy reading, you can try one of my novels. My stories are adventures
and romances in other worlds - Sci-Fi and Fantasy. They are meant to
entertain and have happy endings.
You
can find a list of my books here:
No comments:
Post a Comment