Work is being sent home, schools are closed, events are canceled, and restaurants and bars are limited to takeout. Healthy officials are advising that we practice social distancing until the spread of the virus is contained. Everyone is doing their part in the effort to stop further spread of the virus, but this is no easy task. For many, this self-isolation and unknown of how long this will last poses unprecedented challenges to our mental health and emotional well-being.
Staying active, busy, and remembering to get some fresh air into your day can help in reducing anxiety and bettering your overall health.
Adjust Your Schedules
Building out a routine or subbing the time you usually have in being active will help keep things organized. Just like at work, it’s important to schedule time to break away from the desk by stepping outside even if it’s just your backyard.
Kids are going to be the most impacted by this sudden change, so dedicate some time and plan a schedule to keep them active and studious. Limit internet and practice intellectual engagement such reading books or educational board games.
Be Outside
Take time to get some fresh air. A simple stroll around the block, biking, or hiking can help ease some stress and keep you physically active.
There’s never been a better opportunity to have your meals in the backyard. Plan a picnic or barbecue if the weather permits.
Staying Active & Getting Back to the Basics
With fitness centers closed, parks are a great place to work out and exercise. If parks are not accessible, turn to your favorite online fitness guru and work out indoors or backyard.
Some workouts that do not involve equipment or weights:
- Burpees
- Sit-ups
- Push-ups
- Lunges
- Squats
- Stretching
Just getting your heart rate up by doing simple exercises will go a long way and get the job done to keep you staying fit.
Meditate
Mental health is just as important as physical health, and meditating is a simple exercise that is perfect for self-isolation. Simply find a quiet place at home to sit with your feet crossed, resting your hands, and relaxing your mind. The internet is inundated with meditation guides so choose one that fits you. It’s proven that meditation is a superior method to combat stress, ease pain, and increase alertness and creativity.
Enjoy yourself
When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade! Take this opportunity to imagine all the possibilities of what you would do if you had a “staycation”. Do things that you enjoy, watching TV, reading, listening to podcasts, or cooking and baking.
Stay Connected
Use technology to your advantage and connect with friends and family. Reaching out to loved ones to just talk can help reduce loneliness, boredom, and depression. Remember, you’re not dealing with this alone.
