UAE has around 650,000 reported cases of the coronavirus with around 1860 reported deaths. The numbers of infections have started to rise again. The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) said the increase in deaths was due to the spread of the Beta, Delta and Alpha variants.

The Beta variant, first detected in South Africa, is the most dominant variant in the UAE, accounting for 39.2% of cases, it said. Delta, first detected in India, accounts for 33.9% of infections. Alpha, first detected in Britain, accounts for 11.3%, it said on Twitter late on Sunday.

Whilst Eid is an occasion of togetherness and happiness, and nothing should come between Muslims and this joyous holiday, with all the new coronavirus variants, it is only wise that we abide by the laws and regulations set by the government, get vaccinated, still practice social distancing and refrain from attending social gatherings. Here are six tips from healthcare experts to have a tension-free and delightful Eid:

1.      Get that glow at home

Many women haven’t had the time to visit their salons and dermatologists to get beauty treatments done due to the contagious virus. UAE influencers on Instagram have reported to not feel the ‘Eid spirit’ because of how they look. We have a solution to that. Make an online appointment with a top dermatologist, and via video call get great advice based uniquely on your body’s needs, to look your very best, and that too from the comfort of your home. There’s more to Eid than looks (you’re beautiful just the way you are!) but having your concerns addressed will eliminate the stress!

Recommended read: Self-Care Tips During the Lockdown

2.      Eat your favorite food

Gobble up treats and build your immunity. You deserve meaty cheat days! However make sure to not indulge too much in oily and sweet treats which may harm your health. If you want to maintain the weight that you’ve lost or shed the extra pounds you’ve gained, get a personalized meal plan made by a nutritionist.

3.      Fix your routine

Due to online classes and work from home, the routine has been changed. Individuals have reported getting less sleep, which has led to impaired cognitive function: inability to focus properly (also a cause of stress!) Now’s the perfect time to fix your routine. Wake up early, get dressed, have fun and sleep on time.

4.      Make it about the children

No matter how you explain it to them, a child will always look forward to the Eid that he/she has had in the previous years. Giving them a well-planned Eid will relieve the in-built tension in their little bodies too. According to Forbes, coronavirus has caused a significant increase in anxiety and depression in children. This Eid, go the extra mile and spend time with them.

5.      Schedule video calls with your family

Yes, social distancing is being enforced but in the virtual world, distance-less Eid will be spectacular. During the pandemic, the ban on VoIP applications was lifted, enabling people to use applications such as Skype and features such as video calling for Whatsapp. This Eid, video call your entire family and catch up on all that you’ve missed. Nothing provides more comfort than family bonding.

6.      Make donations for the frontline workers

Eid is all about giving. Donate free meals to frontline workers in the UAE through the Make My Meal collaboration with the Emirates Red Crescent, and other donation setups. If you’ve not donated till now, you can play your part by visiting the UAE Red Crescent Authority’s website or mobile application.

7.      Talk to a professional

If you’re stressed and feel that you need to let it all out, this Eid, pre-gift yourself an appointment with a therapist. Invest in your mental health. It is alright to seek help especially in challenging times such as today.

Recommended read: Is the Lockdown Impacting Your Mental Health?

Remember, you deserve to be happy. A very happy Eid Mubarak from Hakeem!