The world has taken a dramatic turn in the past few weeks. Things that weren’t an issue are now warnings that could potentially save your life. While sheltering in place, there is no need to feel stressed and fearful. There is a lot you can do, with the most important being that you stay at home unless travel is essential.
How to Take Good Care of Yourself During Trying Times
Five healthy habits to follow while you’re sheltering in place are:
- Wash your hands frequently. Following the CDC’s guidelines for washing your hands is imperative to good health. You should spend at least two minutes scrubbing from your wrists to your fingertips and under your fingernails. Try singing a song such as Happy Birthday twice to know that you’ve washed long enough.
- Stay hydrated. Stress takes its toll on you. You must remain hydrated for your body’s many functions to occur optimally. Water is naturally detoxifying. It flushes impurities out and aids in respiration.
- Rest when you feel the need to do so. Sleep is restorative. It helps you perform optimally. During stressful situations, you may feel the need to sleep more. Listen to your body’s needs because doing so prevents major illnesses from occurring without warning.
- Move your body in ways that feel good. Exercise naturally boosts endorphin production. The feel-good chemicals in the brain help you overcome challenges and have a bright perspective overall. Move your body as often as you can and in the ways that feel the best to you.
- Meal prep for delicious and nutritious meals you can heat and serve. Save yourself the time and effort involved with making food for you and your family. Meal prep in advance so that you “cook once and eat twice.” All you’ll need to do going forward is heat and serve what you’ve prepped.
Listen to your body’s needs and correct any imbalances you discover in your life. If you’re working a different schedule at home than you usually do, prioritize sleep. If you struggle to make meals that everyone in the family wants to eat, make something basic, and allow everyone to customize it to their liking. Salads, tacos, and baked potatoes are all options that allow the individual to customize their meal.
Stay Safe and Remain in Communication with Dr. Ahmadinia Often
Dr. Ahmadinia and the staff at OBGYN High Desert cannot stress the importance of good self-care while sheltering in place. Being proactive about your health is imperative during times of high risk. Do what you can to protect yourself in every way that you can. It can make times of uncertainty feel less daunting because you have control over many things in your life.
