Asarah b’Tevet Counting – Quarantine as Fasting

“God commanded the fish, and it spewed Jonah out upon dry land (Jonah 2:11- sefaria.org).” The pressures of suffering – and tight space (either inside a pregnant fish for Jonah, or in quarantine and limited movement for us)  are sufficient to cleanse Israel of our sins (Tikkunei Zohar 53b).

The Kabbalists (Siddur Matok Midevash) apply this teaching to the blessing of:

“Look upon our affliction, and defend our cause: and redeem us speedily for the sake of Your Name; because You are a Mighty Redeemer. Blessed are You, God, Redeemer of Israel.”

Is it possible for us to include the pressures of this past year as part of our fasting on Asarah b’Tevet – The Tenth of Tevet?

Is it possible we can use our intention to direct our weighty concerns to be included as part of our fasting/suffering in order to merit redemption?

Is it possible that our “fast” has already begun?