Stay Healthy While COVID-19 Keeps You Home

In an attempt to slow the spread of COVID-19, the United States has implemented strict social distancing guidelines. Although the specific limitations may vary based on your state, county, and city requirements, we can all agree that we are staying home so much more than usual. In addition to the overall stress of the unparalleled situation we are in, working from home can have added negative effects on both your mental and physical health.  You may find yourself sitting for an unusual amount of time, for example. Below are some tips from various professionals to assist you in staying healthy while at home.

Keep a Schedule

It is widely advised that keeping a daily routine gives you a sense of control and relieves the lost sense of time we may be experiencing while staying at home. Some suggestions include:

• Wake up at a specific time and make your bed each morning
• Get dressed and groom yourself as if you are headed out the door
• If working from home, commit to working the same hours as if you are in the office
• Set up a specific workspace to use during your work hours
• Maintain your typical meal schedule
• Keep a decent bedtime

Structured TV Time

With all good intentions, the media continues to cover every aspect of COVID-19. Unfortunately, most of the news that is reported can be overwhelming or negative. Listening to hours upon hours of continuous coverage can begin to wear on you. Because it is important to stay informed on current events, consider setting specific times to take in the information. This allows you to still receive the information, but not become inundated by it.

Get Physical

Without leaving your home as often, the simple exercise of walking is lost. There is no more walking to your car, from a parking lot or into your office. Sitting for extended periods of time can have adverse effects on your body both short and long term. Whether you consider yourself an avid athlete or a beginner, there are several things you can do to keep your body moving.

• Go for a walk or jog in your neighborhood
• Take your bicycle out for a spin
• Complete walking lunges around your house
• Walk up and down stairs
• Yoga does wonders for the body and the mind
• Jump rope or on a trampoline
• Turn up the music and dance

However you get moving, be sure to do it daily. If you need help finding ideas or need instruction, a quick search in the internet can provide you with multiple resources and instructor led sessions. An added bonus to physical activity is the endorphins released that can vastly improve your mental health as well!

Quiet Time

Your brain needs downtime. Schedule activities that allow your brain to “turn off” and your body to relax.

• Meditate
• Read a book
• Listen to calming music
• Journal your experience and emotions

Once restrictions are lifted and your daily routine returns, remember the things that kept you healthy during your extended stay at home. Although having these in place now are vital, everything listed above will help keep you physically and mentally healthy for a lifetime. At Everest Rehabilitation Hospitals, we have dedicated our lives to keeping you healthy when you need it most.