According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the U.S. has recorded more than 270,000 coronavirus-related deaths so far. As the number of new COVID-19 infections and deaths increase every week, you need to take the necessary precautions to stay healthy. As per the Center of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people with impaired immune functions are more vulnerable to the virus. This group of people includes the elderly and people with underlying health conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and heart conditions. However, irrespective of your health status, practicing self-care during the pandemic can go a long way in protecting you against COVID-19. Here are seven self-care tips to get you started.
Make Your Diet Healthier
To function optimally, your body needs a sufficient supply of nutrients and minerals. According to the University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS), foods such as ginger, broccoli, spinach, and nuts are awesome immunity builders that may come in handy during the pandemic. Importantly, ensure you control your portion sizes to avoid the health problems associated with overindulging, such as diarrhea and constipation. Besides eating healthy, you should also avoid unhealthy lifestyle habits such as excessive alcohol consumption and smoking, says the Harvard Business School (HBS).
Stay Physically Active
Besides maintaining a healthy weight and getting rid of toxins from your body, exercise can help improve your mental health during the pandemic. Since the causes of stress and anxiety have gone up in the U.S., you should take part in physical activity at least once every day for better mental health, according to the University of Michigan.
Get Enough Sleep
Per the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), having adequate sleep can enhance your immunity and lower your stress levels during the pandemic. For maximum benefits, you should have at least seven hours of uninterrupted sleep every day. To achieve this, ensure you sleep in a dark, warm, quiet, and comfortable environment, as reported by the National Sleep Foundation (NSF).
Improve Your Mental Health
More than half of Americans have experienced mental illness such as stress, anxiety, and depression during the pandemic says the Kaiser Family Foundation. Some of the issues causing mental illnesses include worries over the virus, financial disabilities, social isolation, and the loss of loved ones. As a way to care for your mental health, talk to someone in case you’re going through a rough patch, and engage in activities that elevate your mood.
Take Regular Breaks
Breaks are essential for your health since they enable your brain to rest and rejuvenate for the next task. Therefore, it’s crucial to take regular intervals from what you are doing to avoid stress. Take note that a break is also necessary even if you’re not doing anything. For instance, since staying indoors idle for many hours can be stressful, you can take a 10-minute walk around your neighborhood to promote blood circulation.
Follow COVID-19 Safety Guidelines
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends precautionary measures against COVID-19, including social distancing, wearing masks, and sanitizing hands. Therefore, as you practice self-care tips in the pandemic, you should also adhere to the guidelines against the virus.
Stay Hydrated
Apart from a balanced diet, drinking a lot of water helps flush out toxins from your body and enhance the performance of your organs. Although water won’t kill the COVID-19 virus, it can help your organs function better and be in a better position to defend your body. Half a gallon of water per day should be a good place to start.
To stay safe during COVID-19, follow these seven self-care tips. If you’re looking for more information regarding COVID-19, please visit our COVID-19 Resource Center. We hope this information will help guide you during these unprecedented times. The team at Hoffman Brown Company is here for you during this troubling time.
