By: Letitia Greyling

Being locked in with limited social interaction is the safest thing to do. However, it’s also one of the most difficult things to do.

As humans, we strive on interaction, social gathering and especially in South Africa, we love the freedom of travel, we enjoy nature and the traditional braai with friends and family. Don’t forget the one thing that unites our nation – sport.

The ancient and commonly known theories of Maslow stated that some of the most basic needs of humans are the need for social interaction and acceptance. The need for freedom of movement studies done by the World Health Organisation reveals that social distancing and isolation are having significant impacts on people’s mental health and emotional well-being. It also reveals that social distancing is leading to heightened feelings of anxiety and depression among the general public.

There are currently 450 million people who suffer from mental health conditions worldwide.
So, with all the restrictions in place, social distancing regulations, sports events cancelled and the negative news about this pandemic, there are a few positives Covid 19 taught us.

A time of reflection. A time for human and animals to take a break from everything rushed as if the world came to a standstill. Families spent quality time together. Things taken for granted like a coffee date with a friend or a hug from your parents living in an old age home became the things we miss and appreciate the most. Pollution in the air decreased as transport was restricted.

Dolphins came closer to the shoreline as no boats were sailing or disturbing them. A pack of lions were resting in the middle of the road in the Kruger National Park.
The earth took a break. Perhaps Mother Nature realigned. Instead of the roaming sound of aeroplanes, the birds woke us in the mornings.

People were forced to come up with creative ways to work from home, exercise from home, doing schooling from home. People became more aware of the advantage of digital platforms. As church services moved to online platforms, it was evident that religion is not restricted to a building.

The world is slowly reopening and adapting to a new normal. Let us never forget what this pandemic has taught us. As we return to our normal activities, let’s be kind to Mother Nature and respect everything on it. Let us always remember what was taken from us and appreciate the small things more.
Let’s be safe, adhere to the rules and most of all be kind to ourselves and one another.

If you want to share an inspirational story of your lockdown experience with us, send us an e-mail to yvonne@heraut1.co.za