8 Health Lessons That The COVID-19 Pandemic Taught Us in 2021

As we march into 2022 with the hope of getting used to the new normal, it is time to reflect on what we learned from the last two years of the pandemic. The waves and variants of COVID-19 kept throwing new challenges at us. We faced an economic crash, lockdowns, travel bans, scarcity of health services, and more. However, it also gave us some invaluable lessons that we need to remember going forward. Read on to know some of the invaluable health lessons that the pandemic taught us. 

Masks and Cleanliness Are Essential

Today, wearing a mask while going out or in company of people has become a routine for us all. The same applies to sanitizing your hands at frequent intervals to avoid the spread of infection. Even washing up and bathing after returning home from outside has become a norm. With such practices, you can protect yourself from coronavirus as well as prevent spread of the contagious COVID-19.

Building Immunity Takes Time and Effort

During the pandemic, even the healthiest of us was at risk of falling ill. But it is important to know that you cannot improve your immunity overnight. Doing this takes times and discipline. With the help of a nutritious diet, exercise and other healthy practices, you can start your journey towards better immunity. 

Your Health Conditions Play an Important Role in Fighting Covid-19

While age does play a role in your risk for an infection, your health conditions play an even bigger role. According to study, people older than 75 were at a bigger risk than people under 65 [1]. Comorbidities are also a matter of concern, especially for the elderly. All these place light on the importance of your overall health and leading a healthy life. It also helps you understand how important it is to get preventive checkups. This helps you track your health and improve the areas of concern. 

Technology Can Help You Get Treated, Even in Isolation

With work from home becoming common, you may have learned that you can get anything done from home. The pandemic also taught us that the same applies to medical care with options like video and audio chats. To curb the spread of COVID-19 during lockdowns and even after, online doctor consultations became popular [2]. Even now, with restrictions eased, you need not leave home to consult a doctor unless the symptoms are severe. Getting remote care wherever you are also allows you to consult with doctors not in your location. It adds to your ease and convenience. 

Being Fit Does Not Require Equipment

With the lockdown in effect, many people had to quit their training at the gym or going to yoga or other classes. However, the pandemic also taught us that your home furniture or stairs can replace your workout equipment! Doing normal household chores regularly can be just as effective as exercises. It may reduce your risk of immobility or chronic diseases. More people today also sign up for classes online, which also reduces your commute and expense! 

Mental Health Needs More Attention

COVID-19 not only took a toll on physical health but also affected the mental health of many. According to a study, COVID-19 survivors showed a higher possibility of anxiety, PTSD, or depression with possible long-term effects [3]. That is why it is necessary to look after your mental health with extra attention. Consult with a psychologist or psychiatrist if you are having any mental health issues or symptoms. 

You Can Overcome Stress with the Right Practices

Getting through the lockdowns wasn’t easy and you may have learned how important it is to overcome stress. With closed ones being in quarantine and daily life becoming difficult, your stress levels may have gone up. Work pressure has also contributed to this. By doing yoga, exercise, meditation and more regularly, you can deal with your stress in a better way.

Vaccinations are Powerful Preventive Tools

The year 2021 also showed how vaccines can arm your immune system to better fight a disease. With the help of the COVID-19 vaccination drive, India has moved ahead in the fight against coronavirus. Over 138 crore doses have been administered as of December, 2021. These vaccines can reduce your chances of coronavirus infection and protect you against severe illness [4]. 

Life in the new normal has become more challenging than ever. However, it is important to focus on the positive things in your life. Spend enough time with your near and dear ones, and focus on your new year resolutions. If you experience signs of COVID-19 or other health issues, contact a doctor immediately. You can easily book an appointment on Bajaj Finserv Health. The platform also has a number of affordable test packages for you to choose from. This way you can prioritize your health and safeguard yourself better.