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Welcoming the Lunar New Year in the New Normal

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Category: Region NCR

Welcoming the Lunar New Year in the New NormalOne of the most awaited celebration across several nations is the Lunar New Year also known as the Spring Festival or the Chinese New Year. The Lunar New Year is one of the most important holidays in the Chinese calendar. February 12th marks the start of the Chinese New Year 2021 – the year of the Ox.

The Chinese New Year is commonly celebrated through family reunion, week-long festivities, parades, and family feast of traditional Chinese food and delicacies. Traditionally, families gather to honour the heavenly deities and their ancestors. Many visit their relatives and friends, give red envelopes called “lucky money” to children, and enjoy sumptuous meals together. However, as COVID-19 still poses a great threat and quarantine is still in place in many areas, it is advised to observe the health and safety protocols during the celebration. 

Fret not, as here are some tips to keep yourself healthy as you welcome the Year of the Ox in the new normal:

  • Stay at home. There is no better way to celebrate the beginning of the lunar year other than keeping you and your family safe at home. Staying at home protects you and your loved ones from contracting COVID-19. If in case, you would be hosting a simple celebration with family and friends, make sure to follow health and safety protocols.
  • Stay hydrated. Drinking water does not only quench thirst, but also keep our bodies to function properly and be healthy. Staying hydrated also helps in boosting body’s immunity. Based on the Daily Nutritional Guide Pyramid, it is recommended to drink plenty of water or fluids, with at least 8 glasses daily, especially this Flu season.
  • Get enough sleep. Studies suggests insufficient sleep affect overall health. Make sure to get at least six – eight hours of sleep a day.
  • Eat healthy meals. A big part of this celebration is food, as each dish symbolizes wishes for prosperity on the coming year. Dumplings, fish, glutinous rice balls, Nian gao and spring rolls and other customary Chinese goodies may come into mind as it is what is traditionally served during this feast. However, it is best to serve the healthier option by preparing meals that include variety of colourful vegetables (abundant of nutrients and fiber) in the table, opting for steamed fish dish (for heart health) and choosing lean meat and skinless poultry over fatty meat. Serving fruit platter as snacks over traditional Chinese goodies is also a great approach to increase nutritional value.
  • Be physically active every day. Regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety and stress and boost your immune system. it is important to include at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily as part of your routine, according to the Nutritional Guidelines for Filipinos.
  • Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly. Washing your hands often is the most effective way to prevent germs from spreading and reduces transmission of diseases especially during this pandemic. It is necessary to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water to protect yourself from getting sick. You may also hum the “Happy Birthday” song twice to ensure 20 seconds of hand – scrubbing. Make sure to dry your hands with a clean towel or with an air dryer.
  • Observe social or physical distancing. Stay at least 6 feet or about 2 arm lengths from other people who are not from your household in both indoor and outdoor spaces.

The COVID-19 pandemic may have changed the way we celebrate but it should not prevent us from enjoying the festivities. Let us welcome the Lunar New Year with a positive outlook and learn to adapt well to the new normal.

(NOI Shariel Eunice R. Juanillas/NO II Theresa A. Rivas/NPC Milagros Elisa V. Federizo)

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