Life has a funny way of leading us down unexpected paths, and sometimes it takes a major event to make us stop and reconsider our choices. For me, that event was the COVID-19 pandemic, and it opened my eyes to a new way of living – a way that I now see as more wholesome and fulfilling.
During the pandemic, I found myself deeply interested in documenting my experiences. Creating content became a way for me to express myself, stay connected with others, and make sense of the ever-changing world around me. Little did I know that this journey of self-expression would lead me to a profound revelation about wholesome living.
In a conversation with my sister, I stumbled upon the concept of wholesomeness. As we shared our thoughts on how the pandemic had affected our lives, I realized that during those trying times, I had unwittingly embraced a more wholesome lifestyle.
Before COVID-19, my days were a hectic whirlwind. I was constantly on the move, managing my online business, and working from bustling cafes. While I incorporated daily meditation into my routine, I rarely stopped to truly be present in the moment. My life was regimented, and my creativity often drew from external influences.
When the pandemic hit and the world went into lockdown, everything changed. The sudden shift in my daily routine was disorienting, to say the least. However, in the quiet solitude of isolation, I discovered a newfound connection with myself. With fewer external distractions, I delved deep into my natural talents. This period of self-reflection became a catalyst for my spiritual awakening and a deeper sense of purpose.
The pandemic allowed me to reassess my priorities. With restaurants closed and outings limited, I found myself consuming less and cherishing the simple joys of life. The reduction in consumerism led to more mindful spending, and I appreciated the value of cooking at home, maintaining a well-stocked pantry, and finding contentment in the little things.
Reflecting on this period of wholesomeness, I recognized that the pandemic had forced me to become more resourceful and creative. While external sources of inspiration were limited, I discovered a wellspring of creativity within myself – a revelation that fueled my personal growth and development.
As the world slowly opened up and restrictions eased, I faced new challenges in maintaining my wholesome lifestyle. The allure of consumerism crept back into my life as I began venturing out more frequently. The temptation to dine in restaurants, indulge in shopping sprees, and order takeout became ever-present. However, I was determined not to lose the wholesomeness I had found.
In late 2022, I embraced a new chapter in life as I welcomed the birth of my child. Motherhood heightened my desire to cherish each moment and create a nurturing environment for my family. It reaffirmed that wholesomeness was not a fleeting phase during the pandemic but a lifelong pursuit of balance and contentment.
As I continue my journey, I strive to strike a harmonious balance between the pre-COVID and pandemic lifestyles. Wholesomeness, for me, is not about extremes but about finding a balance between responsible consumerism and a mindful appreciation of life’s simple pleasures.
My experiences during the pandemic have left an indelible mark on my life. They have taught me to appreciate the little things, reflect on my choices, and embrace a more wholesome way of living. As I move forward, I intend to carry these lessons with me, making every effort to lead a meaningful and fulfilling life, no matter the circumstances.
COVID-19 may have been a challenging chapter in history, but it also illuminated a path to a more wholesome life – a path that I have chosen to walk and hope to inspire others to embrace. Let us all remember the valuable lessons learned during the pandemic and strive to make wholesomeness a guiding principle in our lives.
Sending blessings to you!
Scherise. X
