During these tough times, many of us are stuck at home in isolation. Keeping oneself isolated on a consistent basis can be damaging to one’s mental, behavioral, and even physical health.
It’s important to know that just because we are required to stay home, it doesn’t mean that we have to sacrifice our fitness and nutritional standards for healthy living. There are many ways to stay active during the COVID-19 quarantine. Luckily for you, we’ve made it easier for you to learn about these ways in this guide for staying healthy during the COVID-19 quarantine.
Let’s take a quick look at the potentially harmful effects that self-isolation can do, as well as tips for how to avoid them.
Be Social, Safely
Have you ever heard or used the term, “I’m getting stir crazy?” or “I’m coming down with cabin fever?” Well, if you have, then you probably know what it’s like to feel this way. Being stuck in the house all day and night can grow these feelings to harmful levels.
Human beings are social creatures, evolved to thrive in collaborative networks of people. So, when we isolate ourselves, we’re going against our nature. Mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, loneliness, and other emotional instabilities can arise as a result of isolating.
It’s in our best interest to be socially involved with others while also practicing safe distancing. We can do this by chatting with friends over the phone, via text, or internet. Having video chat sessions with friends and family members is also an effective way to stay social without physically interacting with others.
Be Aware Of Addictive Tendencies
Overindulging in alcohol or drug use is also a common symptom of self-isolation. If you or someone you know is exhibiting addictive behaviors, such as binge drinking, drug abuse, overeating, etc., then they should seek immediate help.
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) are popular 12-step programs that require attendance to daily meetings. Because these meetings aren’t currently available to the public physically, these community organizations have moved their efforts online.
Now, there are AA and NA Zoom meetings available for everyone to attend. Download the Zoom app on your smartphone or tablet to get started.
Stay Active
There have been many studies revolving around isolation and its effects on health and mortality. Some studies have even uncovered isolation-related risk factors, such as high blood pressure, obesity, cardiovascular issues, inflammation, hormonal imbalances, sleeplessness, and emotional factors.
To combat against these potential risks, it’s important to stay physically active and eat healthy. Don’t overindulge in eating junk food or lounging around the house in your pajamas. Take an hour each day to go for a walk or jog outside, ride your bicycle, or do a home workout. If you have a swimming pool, go for a splash! Engage in aerobic exercise to get the heart pumping.
There are a million different ways to stay active within the confines of your home or neighborhood. But remember, practice social distancing so that you can help limit the spread of COVID-19.
Food & Nutrition
When we self-isolate, it’s easy to crave junk food. Foods that are high in saturated fats, sugar, and carbohydrates feel like a safe haven, especially when you’re stuck in front of the TV or computer.
Be conscientious of practicing bad eating habits, as it could result in significant weight gain and overall poor health. Limit your high sugar, fat, sodium, and carbohydrate intake. Make sure that you eat plenty of fibrous fruits and vegetables, as well as protein-rich foods like fish, eggs, nuts, seeds, whole grains, white meat, etc.
Maintaining a healthy, well-balanced diet is essential to keeping up with a healthy lifestyle. Practice these healthy habits, along with daily exercise and meditation to keep your body, mind, and spirit as fit as possible.
