“Ever have that feeling where you’re not sure if you’re awake or dreaming?”
The above extract is a dialogue from an acclaimed science fiction film ‘The Matrix’. Humanity is confined in a simulated reality and the only way to escape this is to manoeuvre through the dark recesses of your mind.
The Matrix is not only considered one of the best science fiction movies but it had also set a benchmark in the philosophical aspect of cinema. It becomes necessary to address the above dystopian future to the readers so that the plot of the movie slowly meanders into the plinth of ‘addiction’. Allegories should never be cold shouldered millenials!
Addiction is a complex brain condition where a person is constantly engaged in compulsive activities to satisfy the immoral cravings. Referring to the above description of the movie, the person is at the brink of losing control over the mental stability and ‘ends up living in a dream’. However one should realise which habits are harmful and which are not.
Addiction is a serious condition as it might season one’s hunky dory life into a mess or ‘a matrix’ wherein the mind becomes a slave to habits.
Remember the days when we soaked ourselves in sunshine and played cricket with our friends. We are no longer driven by our passions, but by minds that procrastinate. Human life is the most precious gift given to us by nature, let’s not waste it and utilize it to the fullest of potential.
CONGRATULATIONS! First of all. Give yourself a little pat on your back as you have finally decided to change your lives.
Here are few tips to overcome addiction and a lead a blissful life ahead:-
1. Introspect
Take some time out of your busy schedule and critically analyze these 3 questions- Why do I need to stop? What will it ultimately lead to? How will I train my mind to live consciously? Regular questioning of the brain gives it a spiritual light and provides better control over your thoughts.
2. The 21 day challenge
It is often said that 21 days are enough to develop any habit. Addiction is basically a reflex from the brain to a consistent habit. Lifestyle changes are hard to develop however if you firmly decide to stand up for your betterment, no one can stop you. For eg: if you are addicted to social media, try receding the hours of usage day by day until it becomes a habit to use social media wisely.
3. Embrace the real world
Yep! It is the lockdown period ascribed to Coronavirus. However, your mind is not locked down. Utilize your time in productive activities like doing creative art work, practicing music, dancing etc. It controls the pangs of emotion that your mind experiences in response to addictive activities.
4. Rebuild healthy relations with family
It is the best time to reboot yourself and rekindle the relationship with your family. Your family is your constant companion, no one shall ever care for you the way your family does. Talk to them, share your problems and look for solutions together.
5. Abstain solitude
Talk to your friends and laugh over those silly things that you used to do! Friends are busy? Don’t worry. There are many advisors and councilors available who you can talk to via phone. They will be able to guide you in a better way and help you overcome addiction in a tangible manner.
6. Accept challenges
Quitting any addictive habit is not easy as it sounds. You might want to repeat the activity in a loop. Cope up with withdrawal symptoms. Be harsh on yourself if that’s the only way out (not physically nibbas!) For eg: Lock yourself in a room without your gadgets for at least an hour and you can also ask your family for helping you out to execute this plan.
7. Better alternatives
Nah! Binge eating is not a replacement to binge watching. Try replacing your daily content with something meaningful. For eg: Try watching documentaries over stupid comic series. You can also look for creative content online.
8. Reward Yourself
Once you achieve the target that you have set for the day, reward yourself with a piece of chocolate or anything that you like (Don’t eat too much as you won’t find dentists now). The target should be substantial and not something like ‘completing an entire series’!
9. Love yourself
Make an account of all the positive changes in your life. Adore and admire yourself because
“Hum ek baar jeete hai aur ek baar marte hai.”
