While it may seem like a non-essential priority, during COVID-19, it is more important than ever to maintain a healthy and happy body, mind, and spirit. There are many ways you can manage this from the comfort of your own home.
It is important to change your perspective from “why is this happening,” to “how can I embrace the changes?” Three areas to focus on are nutrition, exercise, and mental health. Below, are provided resources you can utilize—not just during a pandemic.
Nutrition
You may find yourself binge eating or snacking more than ever. Notice if you are and try to curb your stress eating.
- Consume healthy snacks such as yogurt, string cheese, a hardboiled egg, protein bar, fruit, and/or vegetables.
- Track your food consumption in an app such as MyFitnessPal to stay accountable.
- Cook that healthy meal you’ve been meaning to try.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Utilize food you already have in your pantry and get creative!
Exercise
Just because gyms are closed doesn’t mean exercise is canceled. There are plenty of at-home ways to stay active with minimal equipment.
- Check out You-Tube for free content.
- Peloton, Beach Body, FitOn and many more apps have extended their free trial policy.
- Take plenty of outdoor walks while maintaining distancing from neighbors.
- Complete virtual runs if yours has been postponed or canceled.
Mental Health
There is a lot of uncertainty right now which can bring to mind doubtful and hopeless feelings. It is important to remain positive and calm, as eventually this too will pass.
- Try free meditation apps like Headspace.
- Dive into a book you’ve been meaning to read.
- Connect with a therapist via TalkSpace, Telehealth, or another platform.
- Stay connected with friends and family through Zoom, Facetime, and Skype.
- Contact a free public crisis hotline (866) 342-6892.
Overall nutrition, exercise, and mental health are possible to maintain and improve during this time. With technology continuing to evolve, there are plenty of resources to try and utilize. Take care of yourself and stay as healthy as possible. The world may seem uncertain right now, but when we look back on this time in a year or two, what will you remember?
