How the coronavirus pandemic brings out acts of kindness in Hong Kong people and businesses
- The coronavirus has us isolated, dealing with stress and worry, with many looking for some relief or help
- From hosting online forest bathing to donating food, shelter and broadband access to the needy, Hong Kong companies are doing their bit
The founder of Shinrin Yoku Hong Kong, a Japanese-inspired practice of meditation through nature walks, said she wanted to share a slice of virtual tranquillity in the midst of the global coronavirus pandemic. “There’s a need for people to connect in a real way,” said Yik, who has been quarantined herself at home in Hong Kong following a working trip in Australia to train others in forest therapy. “The stress from the virus is very present for all of us.”
As Covid-19 has overtaken the world with more than 800,000 infections, anxiety has skyrocketed as well. Apart from contracting the disease, medical experts have warned that quarantine measures, while effective in slowing the infection rate, could also cause emotional duress.
As the number of cases rises in Hong Kong, and more social distancing measures are taken, some individuals and corporations are pitching in to do some good. The stress isn’t just mental, especially for Hong Kong’s most vulnerable.
As McDonald’s suspended its evening dine-in services last week, many homeless people in Hong Kong – who have counted on the 24-hour fast food chain for overnight rest – were left sleeping on the streets.
