Shameela
As I sit here typing this note, I am struck by the ephemeral nature of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. It is easy to get caught up in the routine of daily life and forget to take care of ourselves, but when we fall ill, as I recently did, it serves as a powerful reminder of our own mortality. During that time, I could not do even the simplest of tasks and felt as though I was just going through the motions, unable to distinguish between day and night. It was a humbling experience that taught me the value of caring for our bodies and minds.
I have always cherished all four seasons, particularly snow. But being from Sri Lanka, where the sun radiates brightly year-round, I was not prepared for the painful English winter and how it would impact my well-being. The stark contrast between the warm, sunny weather I was used to and the cold, dreary climate of England was a formidable adjustment.
We pour all of our energy and time into our work, neglecting our bodies in the process. This is especially true when we are passionate about our jobs and want to give it our all.
As much as we love our work, we must remember that our bodies are our vessels in this world, and neglecting them can have devastating consequences. We must treat our minds and body with the utmost care and respect. Unfortunately, we are often caught up in the daily grind of life, neglecting our bodies. When we put our work ahead of our health, we risk developing chronic health problems such as stress, fatigue, and physical strain. The long hours, sedentary lifestyle, and lack of physical activity can take a toll on our bodies and minds. This can lead to a decline in our overall well-being, making it difficult to perform at our best at work and in our personal lives. We only have one life to live, and it is up to us to make the most of it.
Self-care is a crucial component in maintaining good health. It encompasses caring for our bodies and minds and giving ourselves the time and attention we deserve. This could include mindfulness practices, exercise, a balanced diet, enough sleep, stress management, connecting with others, and pursuing our passions. By incorporating self-care into our daily routines, we can keep our bodies and minds in top condition and live life to the fullest.
As I reflect on my time in Sri Lanka, I am filled with a sense of nostalgia. The memories of my childhood home, walking to school with friends, the cool breeze, the aroma of ripe Karuthekolmban mangoes, and endless laughter are distant, but they bring back joy. Growing up in Sri Lanka, I was surrounded by lush greenery, beautiful waterways, and an abundance of warm sunshine, which I once took for granted. The rich culture and heritage of my birthplace have left a lasting impact on me, and I am grateful for those experiences.
Although I miss the sunshine of Sri Lanka, I have chosen to embrace my new life in England and make the most of it. I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences England has provided me. The contrast between the two countries has taught me that life is full of contrasts, and it is up to us to choose how we view them. We can either focus on what we have lost or on what we have gained and what we must be grateful for.
Nostalgia can be both a comfort and a burden. It can evoke fond memories but also sadness and longing. The key is to strike a balance, cherishing our past memories while embracing the present moment. Of course, we can keep our past experiences close to our hearts, but we must also be mindful not to dwell in the past, as this can prevent us from experiencing the joys and opportunities life has to offer in the present.
As I recover and return to work, I remind myself that taking care of our bodies and minds is of utmost importance. To maintain good health, we must prioritise self-care and treat our bodies with care and respect. And although I may miss the sunshine of Sri Lanka, I am grateful for the lessons it has taught me and will carry those memories with me always. By embracing our past experiences, we can honour our memories, live in the present, and experience the fullness of life.
