FT NEWS

This year, because of COVID-19 pandemic, everyone’s lives are impacted, bringing forth several challenges, especially, experiencing more social isolation than before, leading to a surge in mental health issues. On World Mental Health Day, &TV artists, Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai - Angoori Bhabi (Shubhangi Atre) and Manmohan Tiwari (Rohitashv Gour), Happu Ki Ultan Paltan – Katori Amma (Himani Shivpuri), Gudiya Humari Sabhi Pe Bhari – Vandana (Juhi Aslam), Santoshi Maa Sunaye Vrat Kathayein – Santoshi Maa (Gracy Singh) and Indresh (Ashish Kadian) speak on the importance of mental wellbeing and how they keep stress at bay. Rohitashv Gour (Manmohan Tiwari) says, “I am an avid reader and an admirer of the Hindi language; hence I read a lot of Hindi literature and spend my time writing scripts and poems. Scientific research has proved that just 30 minutes of reading a book effectively lowers stress levels and is termed as ‘reading therapy’. All I can say is that I indulge in reading therapy, and it helps me immensely.” Adding to this, Himani Shivpuri (Katori Amma) says, “I practise controlled breathing and meditation, as it helps me stay focused, brings positive energy, and relieves stress. In a fast-paced life, mental wellbeing often takes a backseat and results in several mental ailments. Therefore, engaging in an activity or a practise helps reduce stress and brings in more positivity.” Sharing similar sentiments, Gracy Singh (Santoshi Maa), states, “In this pandemic, there has been a rise in anxiety, stress and depression amongst people, which is concerning. Incorporate physical and meditation or yoga in your daily routine. Spirituality, meditation, and dance are a core part of my life. Meditation is a fantastic way to relieve stress. So is dance. It keeps me physically fit and makes me happy.” Juhi Aslam (Vandana) says, “Being an actor, wife and a mother is demanding. But I do make it a point to find the ‘Me Time’ and engage myself in various activities that calm me down and makes me happy. I love watching comedy shows as laughter reduces stress and relaxes one’s mind. Mental welling is often ignored, and one must keep their mental health in check as much as their physical health.” Ashish Kadian (Indresh) says, “The actors have a hectic lifestyle, hence it crucial to have a work-life balance as well as engage in some activity which relaxes and soothes one’s mind. It could be anything, from reading, exercising, meditating to even cooking, dancing, singing, or painting. Releasing stress is very crucial for mental wellbeing.”  Shubhangi Atre (Angoori Bhabi) says, “Mental wellbeing is extremely crucial as it impacts thoughts, behaviours, and emotions. I practice yoga to achieve personal, emotional, and spiritual growth and development. It plays a crucial role in self-development and cultivates mindfulness. Apart from this, I also practice dance as it makes me happy and spirited.”