Exploring New Horizons During the Quarantine: A Journey of Curiosity and Learning
During these times of quarantine, I seized the opportunity to explore a plethora of new subjects, from understanding the diversity of my country to delving into linguistics, fitness, and more. My curiosity led me to embrace a broad range of educational journeys, often blending various disciplines for richer insights.
Understanding Our Politics and Geography
Before the quarantine, my knowledge of the diverse landscape of India was limited, confined to the southern part of the country. However, the enforced isolation gave me the chance to explore the vast geographical and political landscapes of our nation. Series like Vikings, Last Kingdom, and Marco Polo opened my eyes to the historical and cultural diversity across different regions, enriching my understanding of our country's complexity and the tapestry of its politics.
Diving Deep into History
As a history enthusiast, my quarantine journey has been one of continuous exploration and learning. I've binge-watched series like Vikings, Last Kingdom, Marco Polo, and Dirilis: Ertrugral, which have piqued my interest in world history and various historical periods. Following each series, I delve into reference books and articles to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the historical events and contexts that the series explore. Titles like The Indus Valley Civilization (IVC) and Ancient Mesopotamia (AMT) have become my go-to reads, fueling my avid quest for historical enlightenment.
Linguistics and Its Marvels
The field of linguistics has captivated my curiosity during this time. I have delved into the intricacies of Semitic and Tocharian languages, recognizing their importance in understanding ancient cultures and historical archetypes. The combination of linguistics, archaeology, and history allows me to see the world in a more nuanced and interconnected way, often revealing magic in the simplest of words.
Physical Well-being and Fitness
Although I gained a bit of weight during lockdown, I took this as an opportunity to get back into shape. I started using isometric exercises and even achieved a personal best by lifting a 20-20 kg barbell in the middle bench. It's not a world record, but it's a significant achievement for someone who barely lifted a 3-3 kg barbell before. My journey back to fitness is a testament to the positive impact of quarantine on life skills and personal development.
The Magic of Music
Exploring music during the quarantine has been another rewarding experience. I initially struggled with choosing an instrument but settled on the guitar, which has been both challenging and enjoyable. Learning 20 chords so far has been a small victory. While I may still be classified as a beginner, the process of learning music has brought joy and satisfaction. I've also embraced the role of a bathroom singer, finding solace and release in the melodic tunes I create.
Gaming and Language Learning
Aside from music, I've also played games like Valhalla and attempted to learn Spanish via Duolingo. These activities have not only been fun but have also kept my mind active and engaged during the quarantine.
Learning a Language Directly
In a bid to challenge myself further, I directly started learning programming language C without any prior exposure. This direct approach has been both exciting and demanding, and it's a testament to my determination to explore new territories, even if it's within a niche like computer programming.
The Role of Quarantine
While many view quarantine as a period of isolation, it has provided me with an unprecedented opportunity for personal growth and learning. I have had the chance to interact with hospital staff, including doctors and ward boys, in a very personal and meaningful way. The facilities in my home have mirrored those in the hospital, making quarantine less daunting and more like a continuity of care. I am incredibly grateful to the Government of Andhra Pradesh and the Star Hospital Guntur for their preparations and support during this period.