The coronavirus pandemic has caused increasing death tolls, enhanced community quarantine, and a state of national calamity declaration. Because of these events, the world is left at a standstill–with the global economy severely affected and our mental health in turmoil.
Many of us have adapted well with the changes, however, it has somewhat taken a toll on the mental health of others. As human beings, we are naturally sociable so being in self-isolation could possibly cause struggle and loneliness. And reading too much bad news can make us even sicker.
Luckily, all hope is not lost. To combat this jittery feeling, people across the United States have brightened up their homes by hanging Christmas lights outside their homes. In doing this, you can lift up the spirits of your quarantined neighbors and encourage them to do the same thing and “share the light.”
This brilliant idea was reportedly inspired by the Twitter post of Play-by-Play Broadcaster for the Milwaukee Brewers, Lane Grindle, last March 16.
What if we all put our Christmas lights back up? Then we could get in the car and drive around and look at them. That seems like a fair social distancing activity.
— Lane Grindle (@lanegrindle) March 15, 2020
Here are some of their posts:
Last night we switched our Christmas lights back on. I intend to #sharesomelight every evening until we are out of this darkness (or until my husband shouts at me) to say thank you to everyone who’s keeping the country going #COVID2019 . pic.twitter.com/gxAZhL3ze1
— Nic Jones (@nicjones120) March 18, 2020
My youngest son was bored today and said, "can we put Christmas lights on our tree outside to cheer us up?" Great idea buddy. Lights are on tonight as a sign of hope and the sweet mind of my 10 year old. #Rhodeisland #hope #lovemysons #Christmas #Cumberland pic.twitter.com/qhVjeuLc02
— Mike Griffin (@rhodyknowsbest) March 16, 2020
https://twitter.com/NadineGB204/status/1240130899490062338?s=20
https://twitter.com/apernywatkins/status/1240091632755752960?s=20
https://twitter.com/penru_tondi/status/1239737768378544128?s=20
One question though remains, does it really help?
In an interview with TODAY Home, Psychologist Deborah Serani said, “Christmas decorating will spike dopamine, a feel-good hormone”. She further explained that the bright lights and colors of Christmas decorations increase a person’s “energy levels and boost happiness.”
Putting up Christmas lights may not be the solution to the COVID-19 pandemic but it’s a reminder that light can be found amidst the darkness. Here’s to hoping for wonderful days ahead!
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