“Being in quarantine — Buddhism calls it a retreat.” In the cave of our house, like the meditators of old, we can consciously light the lamp of compassion and connection (Lama Willa Miller). This letter opens with a parable to recall that fear often does more harm than the illness itself.
The parable of the plague
Here is a story told by André Van Lysebeth. A rider on a pure-white horse ventures into the desert. After many days he meets another rider, on a black horse. They greet each other. The wealthy merchant asks: “Who are you?” — “I am the plague.” — “Where are you going?” — “To Dallas.” — “How many will you kill?” — “Two million…” — “That is far too many!” They bargain like carpet dealers, and the Plague agrees to take only 500,000.
Years later, on the way back, the merchant meets the Plague again, accompanied by another rider. “Did you do good business?” — “Yes, but you lied to me: you promised 500,000 deaths, and there were more than two million.” — “No, I kept my promise: I killed only 500,000.” — “Then all the others?” — “That is my companion here.” — “And who are you?” — “I am Fear…”
Strengthening your immunity
The most effective way to strengthen immunity is to reduce stress — one of the benefits of yoga. Keep to a gentle, non-gymnastic, daily practice (even just 15 to 20 minutes): Yoga-Nidrā, prāṇāyāma, meditation, do-in…
Sleep
Research confirms the influence of sleep on immunity and cognitive function: its duration, regularity and quality are key factors. Yoga can help you sleep — in the evening, a very gentle, slow practice.
A balanced diet
Do your best to keep a healthy and varied diet.
Keeping bonds
Stay in close contact with those you love, even at a distance. In short: gentle yoga in the morning, a light dinner at least two hours before bed, and relationships kept alive.
Āyurvedic remedies
Several plants traditionally support the immune system: Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), which increases active white blood cells; Amla, a natural source of vitamin C; Chyavanprash, a paste of amla and spices; and Neem tea, whose bitterness supports the liver. All to be adapted, of course, with the advice of a health professional.
Take care of yourself and those around you.
Om Shanti,
Jean-Claude Garnier
In short
Quarantine can become a retreat: a time to reduce stress, care for sleep and bonds — and to keep fear from doing more damage than the illness.
