by Michael Pyo ’22, Feature Writer

During this unprecedented time, our daily lives have been affected by the everyday struggle known as quarantine. Many family members and friends in the NA community are healthcare workers, creating worry in our hearts. Whether you are on week 1, 3, or 5 of quarantine, processing reality never becomes easier. On many days, I succumb to the sadness and frustration that attaches itself to the pandemic like a parasite; but I have recently realized that we should  use it as an opportunity to grow and reflect. Although it is easy to sulk in the negative situation, we can use this time to better ourselves and expand our horizons. This article shares different ways members of the NA community have handled their newfound time, and how we can turn this dark time into one that is productive and positive. 

Our physical bodies are meant to be active, and keeping them healthy should be your top priority. Whether you realize it or not, walking around school all day accounts for a considerable amount of exercise. Emily Sabando ‘22 described how she has improved herself mentally, physically, and emotionally over the past weeks. She said, “I physically improved myself by getting more sleep and exercise. Swimming and working out is something I’ve been doing a lot for these past couple weeks.” Exercise is one of the best ways to keep your body healthy, whether it is doing a full intensive workout or taking a walk around your neighborhood. According to ULifeLine, exercise releases chemicals in your brain that improve your mood and make you more relaxed. By exercising, you can gain some relief from the devastating news we see in the media. Victoria Carlson ‘22 was in China for the 2019-20 school year but was forced to cut her international studies short due to the outbreak. She also finds herself in the gym: “I have been working out almost every day. Working out helps me relieve stress, and also is beneficial towards my physical health. Working out also helps me not feel so down about being stuck in quarantine.” Whether you love or hate exercising, the benefits are tremendous, especially during this time. 

In a time of social isolation from friends and family, we can often become lonely. It is important to reach out to friends, and reflect together on these moments. Mr. Lal, the choir teacher at NA, says, “There have been a lot of positives since I’ve been home… Ironically, I have been more social.” The deprivation of face-to-face social interaction can lead us to turn to our technology to reach out to friends. There are many ways to do this, such as watching Netflix on Zoom together, Facetiming, texting and even playing GamePigeon. All of the ways we can utilize technology have become known, as it has become the most convenient and popular way of communicating. Emily Sabando said, “ I have been staying in touch with my peers since we’re all going through the same situation. I have found that talking with my friends about our situations makes me feel better because they all know what I am going through, and they are here to listen.” According to the Mayo Clinic, members of a support group often have similar feelings, which result in the level of trust and comfort to rise. Although your group Zoom may not be an official support group, you can use it as one and reap the benefits. Lauren Hardman ‘22 says, “With all the free time, I have had the time to strengthen friendships and even rekindle some.” Use this quarantine as an opportunity to reach out to your friends, and you will quickly realize, you are not alone.