1. Fuel your body
We’re all just a little more stressed these days. The current pandemic has really tested our mental and physical mettle, and it’s easy to reach for comfort foods as a way to temporarily ease the anxiety. However, now more than ever, it’s especially important that we protect and optimize our overall health by fueling our body with the proper nutrients. Be sure to include more fiber-rich, plant-based foods in your diet to maintain a lower body weight and boost your immune system. Think vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains. And for something sweet, opt for natural, whole food options like bananas, sweet potatoes, and berries.
2. Stay active
Staying active during a pandemic can keep you physically healthy, but it can also boost your mental well-being, too. If you can’t get to the gym, try an at-home workout, or get outside and enjoy the fresh air (some extra vitamin D can’t hurt — just remember to wear sunscreen). Sticking with an exercise routine can help lower your risk of developing certain health conditions such as:
- Diabetes
- Depression
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Stroke
- Several types of cancer such as breast, colorectal, and lung
Aside from these benefits, a good workout can boost your mood and brighten your overall outlook. And who doesn’t need that right now?
3. Get enough sleep
Our bodies need adequate sleep in order to stay healthy and function properly, especially during times of extreme stress. Given the real and tangible threats from COVID-19, it’s normal to experience some level of sleep deficiency. However, it’s important to understand that most of us are in a position to control our behaviors and reduce the effects of the pandemic on our sleep schedule. Remember to keep a consistent routine throughout the day and expose yourself to natural sunlight whenever possible. This is another area where exercise helps as it can significantly improve your sleep quality. Lastly, be sure to avoid drinking too much caffeine and avoid it completely after 2 p.m.
4. Practice mindfulness
At this moment, our lives are filled with potentially unsettling changes. We’ve had to adapt to a “new normal” in many instances, and that can heighten anxiety and create additional stress. Practicing mindfulness is a great way to live in and accept the present; it can reduce worry and help us to be intentional about our daily activities. To practice mindfulness throughout your day, consider trying the following:
- Start your day with 1-2 minutes of deep breathing
- Download a mindfulness app and try a guided meditation
- Take a walk outside and notice the sounds, colors, and natural elements around you
- Do a few yoga stretches
There are many different ways to practice mindfulness. Find what works best for you and your routine.
Staying Healthy at ATC Fitness
The team at ATC Fitness is committed to keeping you healthy during these uncertain times. Our facilities are open and abiding by closely-governed state regulations to ensure a clean and safe environment for your next workout. To learn more about how we’re prioritizing your health and safety, check out our FAQ page.
If you’re ready to begin your wellness journey, be sure to check out our gym membership options and apply today!
