People wrote jokes, memes and comedy skits. Then, the more musically minded, followed with parodies, virtual choirs and daily songs, called Quarantunes. The foodies and bakers created 'Quarantine-Cuisine'. Home workouts from the fitness fanatics showed us how we could "Stay Lean In Quarantine" . Quarantini's, Coronarita's and special beverages were created by the wine lovers. Virtual quiz nights, where friends divided into Quaranteams. Even activities aimed at bored youth, that could be found under the hashtag #Quaranteens. Each time I logged in, I would see yet another 'pandemic project' or online challenge.
Now, while all of this was highly entertaining, and somewhat amusing, I had to ask myself if any of it was really necessary? I mean really? I think the answer is both yes and no. These activities were not for our physical health and well being. Not at all - they didn't save lives. No, I believe this was all for our mental health.
I feel that all this creativity was just a coping strategy. It was a way for people to alleviate boredom and add some meaning to the mundane. A way for us to keep busy and stay positive in the face of such negativity. To make the best out of a bad situation. To find the 'upside' of lock down.
And that made me think:- if we can go to these extraordinary lengths, to preserve our emotional health and well being during a temporary lock-down , how much more so, should we use our creativity, when people are facing a lifelong lock-down. People who have a chronic illness or a vestibular disorder. People like me.
Recently, in one of my vestibular support groups, the admins invited the members to share their hobbies. What followed was a very long thread showcasing the artistic side, the creative side and the talents of the people within the group. I was completely blown away. I'd previously only seen one side of our group members. The vestibular disorder side. And yet there is so much more to us. We are more than our disorder.
The vestibular community is a strong community. We already know how to live through adversity and cope in a crisis. We do it every day. But perhaps we need to tap into our creativity a little more. Find our 'upside'.
Vestibular disorders can really take their toll. When I first got VN, I was feeling down about it for a long time. My symptoms were miserable, I was miserable and I was also miserable to live with (just ask my husband!). At the begining of this year, I made conscious decision to approach life differently. I couldn't change my condition, but I could change my mindset. So, I adopted a more positive outlook. And it's been a complete 180. Life looks different to what it did just a few months ago. My symptoms haven't changed, but the way I see them has. This isn't a PollyAnna mentality, it's just a shift of focus and a new perspective. I try to focus more on the things I can do rather than the things I can't do.
I revisited some of my old hobbies, but especially poetry. In fact, I got so involved with a creative writing project in April, that I almost forgot about my dizziness altogether. Finding my creative passion has made me feel a little better about myself, but also better within myself. I'm feeling better in general and I might even be a little nicer to live with (just ask my husband!).
When you shine a spotlight on your abilities rather than your disabilities, it can often give you a new sense of purpose and a new lease of life. It helps to highlight what is good in your life and filter out some of the bad. And it certainly adds a little sunshine to the dark and dreary days of life with chronic illness.
I've seen life from both sides of this disorder, and I can tell you, the view from the upside is way better!
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