Mindfulness vs. Relaxation: Strategies to cope in the middle of a Pandemic

The abrupt shift in life under lockdown has created stress on most households, resulting in many of us neglecting basic self-care needs related to our mind. Against the uncertain context of our society, it is essential to improve our mental wellbeing, and there are steps that we can take directly from Buddhism, such as mindfulness. Additionally, it is crucial to find ways to relax, because while these ideas might be interrelated, these methods can provide different, but equally important benefits. 

Firstly, relaxation relates to having low tension either physically, mentally, or spiritually. This is characterised as the absence of strong emotions such as anger or fear. Examples include doing something that you enjoy, such as reading, exercise, watching a movie, or playing an instrument. Also, assigning separate spaces in your home for work and relaxing can aid this shift from working to relaxing at home. Relaxation is linked to reducing stress and mental health conditions, as well as regulating physiological symptoms including heart rate and digestion.

Reaching a state of relaxation is also integral towards focusing on mindfulness. Mindfulness is the awareness of your environment and yourself. This is different to relaxation as you are able to acknowledge your current emotions, adjust your mindset to reduce stress, and improve your mental wellbeing. Meditating for as little as 15 minutes a day can provide significant benefits such as gaining a new perspective, focusing on the present, increasing patience and creativity, and reducing negative emotions, which is especially relevant to the current state of the pandemic. 

Ultimately, relaxation contributes to mindfulness, and becoming more mindful can help you relax better. No matter how you relax or become mindful, it is important to schedule time in the day to have a focus on both of these methods and create these habits; They should continue throughout the lockdown and into our everyday life.