Health experts recommend that we keep a distance of at least 6 feet from other people and avoid crowded places to help slow the spread of the coronavirus. However, that does not mean you can’t continue staying active and healthy through exercise and habits during this time.
Now more than ever, keeping yourself healthy is important. There are many reasons to make a point of staying active and maintaining healthy habits. For one thing, it helps your immune system stay healthy. It is also a great way to cope with any stress and anxiety you may be feeling.
Getting Fresh Air
- Take a walk, run, or bike ride nearby. As long as you are actively moving and keeping a safe distance from others, it is possible for you to continue exercising outside.
- Get out into your garden and tackle some yardwork. Nature is a great stress-reliever too.
- If accessible, do yoga or meditation in your front or back yard or balcony.
Staying Healthy While At Home
- Have a virtual dance party with your family or friends over video chat.
- Be conscious of what you order for takeout or delivery. Try to choose healthy options or ask for healthier substitutions if possible. Restaurants are generous with their portions. Practice portion control by eating half of a meal now and saving the rest for later.
- Try new recipes. Cooking at home is not only an excellent stress reliever, it allows you to control what goes into your food such as how much salt or fat.
- If you have stairs, climb up and down them for 10 minutes at a time. Or work them into a strength routine with moves like inclined pushups or tricep dips.
- Stream a free yoga or other fitness video or see if your local gym is providing workout sessions over video chat.
- If you’re working from home, take some laps around the house on your breaks. Or have a walking phone conference.
Sources: American College of Sports Medicine; American Heart Association; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
