Beating the lockdown blues in style

ANNA FERNANDES | NT BUZZ

A few months ago, the world as we know it was brought to a halt. And like many of us, for Charmaine Zuzarte adjusting to the new normal proved to be challenging. But as the days went by, it got easier. “I definitely miss my travel plans, being able to unwind by going out for a meal, going to the beach, socialising freely without fear and worry – but I think I have managed well during this phase,” she says.

In fact, the lockdown has helped Zuzarte get in touch with her creative side. With nothing but time on her hands, she began to pen down poetry on her quarantine thoughts, sharpen her cooking and baking skills, and pursue her fitness goals. Being inclined towards style and fashion, she also decided to get creative with her closet by starting a page on Instagram. “I decided that since there is nowhere to go, I could atleast get myself to dress up at home and in the process provide some style inspiration to others,” she says. And through this exercise, she learned that getting dressed up could definitely lift one’s spirits especially if you are working from home.

Now with work commencing, the assistant professor at St Xavier’s College, Mapusa is anxious to say the least. “I sanitise frequently, try to keep my mask on at all times, maintain distance, and try to be more alert of my surroundings,” she says. On a lighter note, she adds that she is still adjusting to the fact that she cannot touch her face without thinking twice, that her mask is her new accessory, and that she cannot hug to express affection.

But before she jumps back into life as it was – or some semblance of it, she takes time to ponder on the lessons learned during the lockdown. “I have learned that no matter how much money you have, if you are unable to buy necessities and are confined to your home you will not survive and hence health before wealth at all times. I have also realised how rumours create so much panic, more so because people had more time on their hands. Being blessed not to fall short of anything during this time has made me more grateful as I hear about people struggling across the world.” She further adds that mental health is as important as physical health.

Reflecting on the silver lining, she shares: “I have realised that man needed to stop his race for money and power for Mother Earth to heal.” Looking ahead, Zuzarte is hopeful that this dreadful circumstance comes to an end soon, and is resolute to be more cautious on consumption while continuing to engage in sharing and caring.