Taking best out of CORONA..!!!

With the ongoing pandemic Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) hard hitting the entire world, several critical steps are being taken by the governments of all the impacted nations to slow down and eventually stop the transmission of the virus. Few specific terms we've been prominently hearing now are Quarantine, Isolation, social distancing, Lock down, face masks, hand wash, etc. And  owing to the factors such as contagiousness of the infection ,no such treatment or vaccine being available as of now, the exponentially growing active cases, and increasing death tolls, it's really high time that people understand the severity and seriousness of the spread and strictly observe the prescribed guidelines.

The 21 day imposed lock down might seem to be burdensome to many, agreed that we are not used to confine ourselves into restricted boundaries, but this is the ask of the hour and the only solution at the moment to break the infection chain and defeat this deadly virus , also proclaimed by the experts.

Just wondering that if this lock down period and self isolation can be utilized in introspection and sharing the thought process on some of the areas. Also the intent lies in reflecting positivity. Penning down the few thoughts here.

• Advice to use face masks - It's recommended that person infected with COVID-19 should wear masks to prevent spreading it to someone else. If we try to dig into Jainism, will learn that the Jain saints cover their mouth with a mesh/cloth/mask aka Muhapatti (mouth cloth) with an intent to avoid inhaling and killing of insects or any living being through the process of breathing. This also prevents any harm done to the microbes. So, I believe that  a certain part of our culture is already compliant to what the whole world is being advised to observe today.

• Maintaining Social Distancing - this being one of the major factor in order to prevent the spread of COVID. If we take a step back and take a look at our Indian tradition, when there wasn't any western impact, the only way of greeting was a 'Namaste' - with joining hands -which has been adopted by the globe today thus ditching handshakes and hugs.  Also, recently read somewhere that  "When we put our hands together and hold it close to the heart, it stimulates the heart 'chakra'. The 'Namaste mudra' benefits the thoracic region, including the immunity of the lungs", thus with 'Namaste' going viral, definitely it's a sense of pride for us.

• Appreciating the front line workforce - 'Stay at Home' has become worldwide motto. But there is a force that is available to work and serve to keep the things going in such trying times. Be it the healthcare professionals like doctors, paramedical staff, nurses, technicians, pharmacists, etc., or policemen , civil servants, delivery persons, grocery workers, sanitary workers, media and many more. They all tend to provide essential services and act as first respondents, thus are lifelines in this situation. They truly deserve huge gratitude and heartfelt thanks with immense appreciation.
• Work From Home - with this lock down, Work from Home/Work at Home feature has emerged as a mandate and not a choice anymore. Many sectors, though observing this for the very first time. This would definitely change the way we have operated , from traditional way of working to getting connected virtually will definitely change everyone's perspective, taking us a step ahead towards globalization, it has much more to offer beyond increased flexibility and productivity.
• Innovation at its best - with surge in the count of COVID-19 cases, there has been an increase in the need for  isolation facilities - Indian Railways have come up with an inventive solution to meet this demand. Rail coaches to be converted into quarantine hubs - this would definitely prove to be a resourceful solution that was utmost required in this situation.

• Changing attitude - Have observed that people are becoming more empathetic towards each other, be it neighbors or family and friends. They are coming forward extending  concern and help in best possible ways during this  stressful situation which in turn is a very positive sign. This quality was gradually shrinking amidst our busy lives.
• Opportunity for Indian market - COVID-19 has vastly impacted the global economy and has created a huge void by disrupting the supply chain network. With China's production activities getting disturbed -this may create a set of new opportunities for manufacturers  and industrialists esp. Indian market to attract foreign business and investments.

Thus, the list can go on and on with more thoughts to ponder upon. But seems to be good for now. Help the nation fighting this invisible virus by Staying at Home. Unleash your potential, explore your talent, know your inner self, incline towards spiritual devotion, be a supporting hand for family, and most importantly Stay healthy and Take care!