India and Singapore have a lot in common. At present, both areas are under lockdown, and there is concern about the potential for community transmission. Immigrant workers are affected, either with COVID or living conditions with return to their hometowns, almost impossible. The main difference between the two countries is the relaxation provided to citizens. Singaporeans can exercise outside, while Indians can buy sweets and snacks.
I guess therein lies the conundrum. As an Indian, I am willing to skip my daily exercise, but I need to have my tea and snacks twice a day, even though exercise is important in Singapore. However, my contention is that the goal is common :-)
When you exercise you are obviously burning calories, which need to be replenished. What better way than having a good snack or a smoothie based on your preference in life. Ergo, exercise is creating demand for snacking alternatives and forcing citizens to walk to the nearest store.
When the lockdown started, there was initially panic on availability of food items. A couple of days later, I was vastly reassured to find a bag of freshly made potato chips on the shelves. As is natural with me, I quickly added it to my physical cart. Half a kilo of chips looks like a lot, but I said my family will also enjoy them. When they did not support this cause, I was worried about the shelf life of the chips (since most of these have a shelf life of few days), I did not want them to go waste! So I helped myself to a few more than I would normally.
I ate too much and needed to exercise, and I also need to go get more supplies, which will also require exercise. Opening snack shops has increased satisfaction for many people, although alcohol and cigarette users may disagree. It is also motivating people to exercise.
So next time you reach for your bag of chips, remember to follow up with exercise, otherwise the doors may have to be replaced and shopping for non-essential items such as clothes may not be allowed for a while. Happy snacking…
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