Isolation has removed many of the social support systems and connections that we may have taken for granted. If we look at isolation from the perspective of an astronaut, it may offer new opportunities.
Those who go into space must prepare a great deal prior to liftoff. The country may be in “self-isolation” for the time being, but an astronaut may be in isolation for close to a year without the benefit of the occasional trip to the store for groceries or our backyards, another part of the home, a hiking trail or park.
The astronaut, floating in zero gravity,
Self-isolation it is all in perspective
It has been a few weeks since everyone was asked to self-isolate and practice diligent social distancing.
For some, this process has been a joy. It provided time to catch up on the neglected things to do lists around the home or indulge in the abandoned hobby.
Others are going through closets and purging items that “one day will fit” to “I believe this was from the 80’s”. Many have the whole family unit together, oftentimes testing some people’s patience. School is being taught online while some are teleworking, often balancing both activities simultaneously.
can only look out a small window and look down at the blue marble that is suspended in the galaxy. Possibly wondering what families are doing; such as eating together, watching a movie or playing Frisbee in a park. Daydreaming…. just as we daydream of being able to sit at a favorite restaurant while enjoying in close conversation and delighting in a favorite entree.
But as we settle our feet back down on solid ground, we can look at Astronaut Anne McClain's perspective on isolation in an article from BestLife:
By Paula Aragon, Public Affairs