Well what do you know. We find ourselves in the midst of a global pandemic. With cases back on the rise again in the US and a fairly dramatic shift in what many call “normal”, it can be easy to see the doom and gloom of the situation. Don't fret. There are ways to stay happy and healthy during this craziness we find ourselves in. Let’s walk through exactly how to stay sane (and healthy!) throughout all of this.
What you eat matters - Don’t worry. It’s not as bad as you may think. Eating healthy doesn’t have to mean munching on salads all day everyday. Although, I must admit, I do love a good salad. Honestly, I eat them on a regular basis. Although if a delicious heap of greens isn’t your idea of a good time, try this approach. Be mindful of what you put in your body. Why? For starters, the nutrition you give your body directly impacts your health. Both mental and physical. Sure it’s okay to splurge once in a while. That too can have its benefits. It’s important, though, to make sure that the majority of what you eat is wholesome. Stir fries, grilled protein and veggies, bowls and salads are all great ways to get your fill of delicious and nutritious foods. With dairy free, gluten free, low carb and vegan options, these are great for a variety of dietary needs. There are so many possibilities when it comes to super tasty, healthy food options. If this idea is new to you, check out this article for some quick and easy meals to get you started.
Eating healthy also has a profound influence on your mental state. Ever fall victim to the dreaded “food coma”? With more access to the pantry and less face to face accountability, it’s easy to fall prey to overeating and less healthy food choices. A plethora of studies find the direct correlation between healthy eating and happy minds. Why? We are fueling our brains with the correct nutrients. We are giving our bodies the best chance at being fit. Plus, we have the satisfaction of knowing we are doing the “right” thing.
Keep moving! - It’s easy to get caught in a rut when we are asked to “stay at home”. Many are working from home during this. Some have even lost the opportunity to work. Kids are home. Public venues are closed. Let’s face it, it’s tough to actually find things to do.
One of the best things we can do for our health, especially when we are cooped up inside the majority of the time, is to get moving. Put some music on and dance. Dust off that set of dumbbells sitting in the corner. Check out the newest workout trends on YouTube. There are even more activities we can do outside. Especially this time of year. Bike, hike, swim, run, garden, take a jaunt through the sprinkler, go for a walk. If you are looking for inspiration, take a look at this list of 99 things to do outside. Which leads to the next point on the sanity checklist…
Go outside! - There is no question about it. Being outside makes us happier and healthier. There is overwhelming scientific evidence to suggest being outside benefits individuals, communities and the planet. What’s not to love about that?
From an individual standpoint, soaking up the outdoors reduces stress and increases happiness. Even just the sounds nature offers us, birds singing, water running, wind rustling, improves moods and provides peacefulness. That’s something we could all use. Especially during a global pandemic where stress and unhappiness is at a startling high.
From a community standpoint, it enables us to connect. Even during these social distancing times, there are ways to connect with community members outside. In fact, that may be one of the safest and only ways to still connect with people at the moment. Finding a hiking group, park tour or nature walk might be the best way to fill that craving for human connection in a socially distanced manner while soaking up the much needed outdoors. That sounds like a win win to me!
Stay connected - It’s so easy to fall into a state of reclusion when our normal schedules are pulled out from under us. This is exacerbated when we are literally asked (or in some cases barred entirely) from gathering with people. While some may thrive off of alone time -
introverts rejoice! - a good portion of society does not. It’s important to find ways to stay connected to a social group, your friends and family. It might take a bit more creativity when large groups are prohibited and a 6 foot barrier is required. It can be done though. Pick up the phone and call a friend. Join a group on Facebook and follow hashtags that speak to you. Video chat with those you can’t physically visit. If you and your friends are comfortable, how about a socially distanced fire? Remember, even though we may not be able to have a big party, go to our favorite class or meet our friends at that concert, there are still ways for us to get our social interaction in. Which may be just the thing you need to get a little mood booster.
Find yourself - Take this opportunity to dig a little deeper and find some things that resonate with you. Pick up a new hobby. Take an online class to learn a new skill. Create a funky art project. Experiment with foods to find healthy options that work for you. Explore movement that fits your style. Find activities to get outside more. Meditate. Sing. Dance. Play. Find ways to enrich your soul. Use this time to find peace with who you are. This may be one of the best opportunities in our fast paced, ever busy, incredibly demanding schedules to take a few moments to ourselves. Take advantage of this lull to find things that speak to you.
There is no doubt about it. 2020 is unlike any other. Things, places, shows, activities that we love and want are either inaccessible or completely canceled. All hope is not lost though. We have the power to make our time wonderful. In spite of the outside circumstances. Let’s embrace the new opportunities this new founded “normal” gives us.
Stay happy and healthy my friends!
