So, no the Coronavirus is not quite a global CRISIS. We are not living through a war…luckily, but it has effectively stopped many of us around the globe from living our normal lives. Unfortunately, as a Senior at Carolina, I have many emotions about everything currently going on with this pandemic. I am angry and upset, but most of all just confused. I do not think it has quite sunken in yet that I will not be attending another class in Genome or Dey (pronounced “die” 🙂 ) Hall or any other building on campus. I will not have anymore late night study sessions in the UL. I won’t get to live with my roommates ever again. Yes, I knew this day would eventually come, but it’s one thing to be prepared for it and another to have it blindly ripped from you. Little did I know that walking back from my medical terminology class on Friday before Spring Break would be my last walk back to my apartment. I did not get to cherish my last moment at UNC and I think that is what is upsetting most of all.
This being said, I would tell all students at Carolina, especially Freshman, that your time at UNC will be short. Sometimes it will feel like it will never end, but it will fly by and before you know it you’ll be a senior and never want to leave. Cherish every moment at school, because life can sometimes be cruel. Yes, I am only losing two months at Carolina, but those last two months are in many ways the best experience in college. The nostalgia you feel and the love for the school grow everyday as you know your days get shorter and shorter being at the University. Now that I have completed my emotional rant, I would like to share some great ways to stay active and healthy without losing your mind while quarantined.
I have downloaded the Peloton app and they have extended their free session to 90 days due to the pandemic. If you are like me, you are probably thinking you have to have a peloton bike for this. No. This app gives you different workout methods such as cardio, running, walking, yoga, cycling, strength, boot camp and many others. Working out for about 20-30 minutes each day is one of the best ways to get your endorphins going. I also recommend watching comedies on television, face timing friends, calling friends or even reading a good book. As a Psychology major, I know how important dopamine is for you. During this stressful and emotional time, it is important that you find a way to increase your dopamine levels so as to feel better and be in a happier mood. Also, PUT THE PHONE DOWN. Stop snap chatting, stop looking on instagram, stop looking at twitter, stop texting…just stop being glued to your phone. Have an actual conversation with someone on the phone and hear someone’s voice.
I think our society could actually benefit from this virus in some ways. People have gotten too attached to their phones and social media. Enjoy your parents’ company if you are at home. Enjoy your friends’ company if you are still at school. Make meals or even bake fun goodies with the people you are around. Make good memories during this crisis and don’t let it consume you. Workout, get your work done for the day, and have fun with the people you have decided to surround yourself with during this pandemic. If you feel emotional, talk to someone and let them hear how you feel. Mental health is very important during this time. I think as selfish Americans, the lesson we need to take away from this fiasco is to enjoy every moment that passes because you never know what life will throw at you the coming day.
Charlotte's Blog 