portugal - covid - practice

How your practice helps when you get covid abroad

I didn’t intend to get covid when I started my journey 3 weeks ago. Especially not during the first few days. But that’s what happened. On the 4th day, symptoms began. They moved from my stomach to my head to my chest and back again, lingering here and there.

I wasn’t going anywhere for awhile, and was stuck with my circumstances. This is how I used my meditation practice to get through it.


Week 1: Gratitude, Hope & Determination

I considered my good fortune. I had medicine. A clean bed. A safe environment. 

My husband was with me so I was not alone. I had someone to care for and watch over me.

And I was determined. Perhaps stubborn. I was not going to let this take me down. My intention was set. Mindset firm. 

I brought my yoga mat with me, and used it to stretch my body and mind. “I can get through this.”

I sat in meditation. I fell asleep listening to the dharma. I talked with my deceased parents.  I recited mantras.


Week 2: Time to Heal

We headed out of the urban center of Lisbon, and settled into a quaint villa in a small coastal village. Here I was able to:

• See the beautiful horizon
• Hear the waves of the ocean
• Smell the fresh salty air

My practice helped me to center myself, to bring mindfulness to the external reality that surrounded me. Although brain fog was present, I could still use all my senses.


Week 3: Change of Plans

Visiting our friends in another European country went by the wayside. Instead, we searched for a nearby rental. In a day, we found one not knowing what to expect. 

The Gods & Goddesses were certainly looking down upon us. We were greeted with a spacious apartment with a breathtaking view of the ocean. The seacoast was lined with miles of dramatic beaches with soft sand, surf waves, and red rock mountains. People were kind and happy, speaking a variety of languages that sounded like music.


Coming Home

We couldn’t come home until I stopped testing positive, which could last for weeks. I finally tested negative the day the US lifted the ban to enter the country without proof. 

Oh the irony.

On a positive note - using humor and my practice here - If not for that, we would have missed our great fortune to experience an expanse of beauty in lands I never even heard of. The Algarve of Portugal. 

To your health & happiness,
Alana


PS. The timeframes above are approximate and do not reflect actual stay in each area


PSS. Photos can be found on my FB & Instagram pages