The nation-wide lockdown to prevent the spread of COVID 19 has been an opportunity for us to slow down and reassess priorities. We have no choice but to adapt to a ‘new normal’ and focus on ‘Needs’ instead of ‘Wants’. It is the basics – good physical and mental health as well as meaningful social relationships that will help us not just tide through this crisis but always keep us going strong.
One of the biggest positives of the lockdown is that the focus of parents and educators is now shifting towards the overall well being of children. Aspects like physical distancing, personal hygiene and cleanliness are now given a lot of importance. Also, families are particular about providing nutritious home cooked meals and starting a fitness regimen for their children.
This is also a sign that the education sector and parents will have to shift focus to integrated overall well-being programs embedded as part of the new normal.
Well-being refers to the 3 basic areas, physical fitness, mental health and the ability to nurture social relationships. It can be said that individual who is physically active for a length of time daily, emotionally stable with the ability to handle challenges and at the same time committed to social relationships is likely to find both success and happiness in their personal and professional lives.
Physical well-being is extremely important as it goes beyond just promoting good health. It builds concentration as well as demands discipline, commitment and the ability to work in a team. Studies have shown that the academic performance of a child involved in physical activity can improve by atleast 20%.
Emotional well-being is being recognized as a significant aspect of an individual’s health. Organizations and institutions for higher education often value EQ (Emotional Quotient) more than just IQ (intelligence Quotient). It is believed that a person with higher EQ is better equipped to handle stress and take mature decisions.
Social well-being goes hand in hand with physical and emotional well-being. The ability to build meaningful relationships with other individuals is key to personal and professional growth.