By: Natasha Archary
Human beings crave interaction. It’s part of our genetic code, to feel loved, touched and needed. So much so that many may not know how to adapt to the solitude and maintain a positive mindset during the pandemic.
Bombarded by studies that tell us we need to socially distance and avoid human contact and stimulation in order to survive this virus and all its deadly variants, can take a toll on one’s mental health.
This Tuesday on Kaya Drive with Sizwe Dhlomo, the team touched on how the pandemic is affecting mindset amongst South Africans.
Listen to the team share personal stories here:
-
play_arrow
Tue 16:11:53 to 16:28:59 Kaya 959 95.9
Psychiatrist and researcher, Dr. Mary V. Seeman published a review in the 2016 journal Psychosis and writes, “Solitude can also reap benefits such as recovery of a sense of self, renewed harmony with nature, escape from sensory overload, stimulation of creativity or awakening to spirituality.”
READ: Reconnect with nature and realign your energy
Here are 4 tips for a positive mindset amid the pandemic:
-
Creativity
Alone with your thoughts is the perfect opportunity to discover your own voice. It is during these moments of stillness that you find different means of expression with no interruption. This could be painting, music, food, writing. Whatever you have been putting off, you have time to focus on that so do what gives your soul joy.
-
Sense of self
Gain new insight into the person you really are. Enjoy the silence and give into the quirks that make you, YOU. Whether you are in a relationship newly single or have been single for a while, loving yourself is the first step. Love all your flaws, weaknesses, strengths, inner demons, everything that makes you unique.

-
Rejuvenate
Escaping it all is liberating. Allow yourself to break the cycle of a regular routine and do something that will force you to relax and unwind. A trail hike, sunset stroll, meditation, a long drive without a destination, do whatever it takes to give your mind, body and soul the rest it needs.
-
Achieve
With new-found energy and focus, comes increased productivity and effectiveness. A clear mind can do wonders. Immerse yourself in all the projects and to-do lists you have been putting off. Make use of the free time to put plans in motion and reach goals you’ve set.
It’s important to put yourself first and many don’t because we feel guilty for taking time to ourselves. Self-care is not something that needs validation and if you need to get away for a weekend, do so. Switch off your phone, shut out the world and bunker down until you are ready to deal with it all again. There is power in solitude, finding it is a freedom all its own.
Also read: Sizwe Dhlomo shares message of hope with South Africans


