Looking on the Bright Side: The Positives of the Great Pause of 2020
As leaders around the globe scrambled to slow the spread of COVID-19, the novel coronavirus first discovered in China in December of last year, the world economy ground to an immediate pause. While virtually shutting down entire countries may have saved millions of lives, it has also led to historic rates of unemployment and economic chaos.
Fortunately, it appears the ‘Great Pause’ may be nearing its end. Ohio’s Governor Mike DeWine on April 27 announced plans to gradually reopen the state’s economy over the next few weeks. While the phased reopening does not yet include salons and spas, there’s still reason for all of us to take heart: this unprecedented world shutdown has yielded many unexpected positives.
Let’s take a look on the bright side and consider the following benefits of our recent collective experience:
· Water visibility is improving.
In Venice, Italy, the city’s canals are clear for the first time in decades or longer, thanks to decreased boat traffic allowing sediment to settle to the ocean’s bottom. A city spokesperson noted that the air in Venice is cleaner as well.
· Air pollution is diminishing.
That improved air quality isn’t just limited to Italy, either. According to IQAir, a global air quality information and tech company, major cities around the world that usually suffer from some of the worst air pollution are experiencing reductions in deadly particulate matter by up to 60 percent.
· Noise pollution has also been reduced.
With fewer factories operating, fewer cars on the roads, and public transit running shorter hours if at all, the ambient noise in many areas has been much lower during the shutdown. While this is not only beneficial for human health, it’s also allowing more people to enjoy the sounds of spring bird song. Animals have been enjoying the increase in peace and quiet as well. From squirrels and ducks to coyotes and pumas, many of nature’s creatures have been exploring areas normally dominated by humans.
· Families are finding new ways to have fun together.
From boredom-relieving walks around the block to game nights and dance parties, many families have taken advantage of our nation’s stay-at-home orders to find time for fun bonding activities that might not usually fit into busy schedules.
· People are finding joy in the little things.
Though this has been the most stressful event most of us will ever experience, it has provided us with the opportunity to appreciate and find joy in experiences we used to take for granted.
Life is full of ups and downs but it is up to us to choose which pieces we’re going to hold on to. This pause has taken us all for a ride we never saw coming but it has also shown us the real beauty in this world; hugs and handshakes, , the importance of self care, family time, and our earth. When this is all said and done, remember not to take these little things for granted because before we know it, they could all be taken away again. Here at Creative Images, we’re definitely missing the little things. We miss our students, our staff, and our clients but coming May 18th, our doors will be open again and we can’t wait for that day! Please follow along on our website for more updates to come. Stay safe and stay healthy, everyone!
By Angela Rose for Creative Images Institute of Cosmetology
