Tips for Sheltering in Place: Advice from a Former NASA Astronaut
Summary
In this article, we share tips for sheltering in place from Mike Massimin, a former NASA astronaut. He encourages embracing the situation and taking advantage of the new world we live in, where we can communicate with each other over distance. He also emphasizes the importance of talking to others and being someone else’s “mission control,” as he felt isolated during his spacewalks. Massimin shares personal experiences from his time in space, including a mistake he made during a spacewalk and the importance of exercise and taking a moment to appreciate the beauty around us. He recommends pursuing meaningful distractions and hobbies, like photography, to make the most of time spent in isolation.
Table of Contents
- Embrace the Situation
- Take Advantage of New Technology
- Talk to Others and Be Someone’s “Mission Control”
- Importance of Teamwork and Asking for Help
- Exercise and Appreciating Beauty
- Pursue Meaningful Distractions and Hobbies
Embrace the Situation
Mike Massimin advises embracing the situation, just as he did during his time in space. He learned to make the most of his experience and suggests taking advantage of the new world we live in, where we can communicate with each other over distance. Instead of focusing on the negative aspects of sheltering in place, we can focus on the positive opportunities it presents.
Take Advantage of New Technology
Massimin recommends learning how to use devices like Zoom and Instagram to communicate with others and stay connected. With technology, we can still work, learn, and socialize from the comfort of our own homes.
Talk to Others and Be Someone’s “Mission Control”
During his spacewalks, Massimin felt isolated and recommends talking to others and being someone else’s “mission control.” By being there for others, we can reduce isolation and build connections.
Importance of Teamwork and Asking for Help
Massimin shares a personal experience of making a mistake during a spacewalk and feeling like he had created a horrible problem. However, he ultimately realized that everyone that could help him was down on Earth, and he couldn’t even get to a hardware store to fix the issue. This experience taught him the importance of teamwork and asking for help when needed.
Exercise and Appreciating Beauty
Exercise is essential for maintaining physical and mental health, even in space. Massimin also emphasizes the importance of taking a moment to appreciate the beauty around us. He shares a personal anecdote about his last spacewalk and the value of connecting with friends and colleagues.
Pursue Meaningful Distractions and Hobbies
Instead of engaging in activities that are not necessarily meaningful, Massimin recommends pursuing hobbies that one enjoys during free time, like photography. By pursuing meaningful distractions, we can make the most of our time spent in isolation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, sheltering in place can be challenging, but it also presents unique opportunities for growth and connection. By embracing the situation, taking advantage of new technology, talking to others, and pursuing meaningful distractions, we can make the most of our time spent in isolation. Remember to exercise, appreciate the beauty around us, and ask for help when needed.
