Lecturing with a Chronic Illness : 3 Ways the Pandemic Helped Me Survive

 Maria Aloysius

Photo by visuals on Unsplash

I know it’s rather ironic or controversial to say this : The pandemic saved me!

Almost for more than a year during the pandemic, working from home (WFH) (working from my bed that is) was a blessing!

Here’s how I survived :

1. My physical health & pain

During the WFH period, I had less movement. No driving. No walking. No talking elevators. What does that mean?

Less movement leads to less inflammation and less pain.

I was able to deliver lectures from the comforts of my own bed with unlimited amount of rest for my body and knees.

I was able to get a free flow of ice (icing helps with inflammation) as I had access to my freezer all day, any time. At work, it’s impossible. Carrying around an ice box is inconvenient.

Photo by Aleksandar Cvetanovic on Unsplash

2. My emotional & mental health

Since I was working from home, I was able to eat well, get unlimited rest and focus on my online lectures better. I was more productive. I was calm and happier and more creative. I looked forward to each online lecture with enthusiasm.

I was able to regulate my emotions better. I observed at the end of a physical full work day, my moods and pain would be uncontrollable. I’d be upset or frustrated. When I was at home, my moods were better because my pain was controllable.

Photo by MARK ADRIANE on Unsplash

3. My spiritual health

I had a lot of quiet time at home. I love solitude. I could meditate and do music therapy in my room. I sang. I prayed. I wrote. I drew. I painted pictures. I watched the clouds & sunsets & stars.

I filled my days with reading poetry, books and journals. I prepared for my lectures in peace. Without any disturbance from the outside world. I found I could give my students the best when I was at peace with my mind, body and soul.

Photo by Dewang Gupta on Unsplash