MAINTAINING GOOD HEALTH DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

The world is under a trying time right now as the number of Covid-19 cases are rising, along with uncertainty and anxiety. We have been urged by various healthcare authorities to practice social distancing and ensure proper hygiene to minimize the risk of infection. Despite the changes to our daily way of living, we can still make sure we’re making smart choices to stay healthy. Here are some helpful reminders:

• Hydration – please make sure you’re drinking enough water every day. Hydration not only improves movement but also helps to regulate blood pressure, manages energy levels and improves your ability to exercise (5 Ways to Get a Jump Start on Physical Therapy, n.d.). Try mixing fruits in water to spruce things up if you find it challenging to drink plain water.

• Keeping Active – we are well aware of the importance of staying healthy through regular exercise as exercise boosts immune regulation (Nieman & Wentz, 2019) and other functional outcomes. According to a very recent article published on Science Daily, it was found that while “COVID-19 is caused by a new virus, in an otherwise healthy person, a robust immune response across different cell types was associated with clinical recovery” (Thevarajan, 2020). Thus, we can help our bodies maximize the risk of fighting off an infection by ensuring our immune systems are healthy. One way to keep fit is by NORDIC WALKING aka urban poling. A simple yet highly effective form of fitness that works 75 to 90% of your muscles, burns 20% more calories than walking and reduces stress on your hip and knee joints-it’s worth trying-whether venturing outdoors or in the comfort of your own home. The Activator poles may be helpful for people who have challenges with balance and can be used indoors as well. No matter the setting, always remember to practice social distancing.

• Mindfulness – “Mindfulness is the practice of purposely focusing your attention on the present moment” (Harvard Health “Benefits of Mindfulness, n.d.). With the news bombarding the public with discouraging outlooks and stats, we can take a moment to be still and in the Now moment. As a quick exercise, try this: breathe deeply drawing air fully into your abdomen and slowly exhale. Do this three times while being aware of your breathing. It’s okay if this does not come naturally to you. Mindfulness is an art and does take practice.

• Connection – despite the importance of social distancing and self-isolation guidelines (if you feel sick), staying connected with friends and family is equally vital. This does not mean that you have to be in close physical proximity to someone, you can still stay in touch; try giving a loved one a ring instead of visiting in person. You can even meet online through video chats! These are simple ways to keep from feeling lonely or bored. Staying connected is fundamental to our overall wellbeing and social media has made it easier than ever to do just that!