Like all of you, I want clarity and control in a situation that seems to be out-of-control. Not having answers and persistently receiving shocking statistics about infection rates, death rates, over-capacities in hospitals, a downward spiralling economy, food (and apparently toilet paper) shortages to only name a few is not helping. I encourage you to read the below to understand that we are not helpless. We can do much more besides strictly respecting the emergency measures that have been put in place.
What is happening is scary and will impact how we live, work and interact in the future. As a Health Coach, I am trying to focus not only the negative, because to be honest there is far too much of it. A few good news items: Pollution rates are positively impacted, we are being more mindful, technology and social media are being used to connect in a much more personal and environmentally friendly level than before, and more importantly, we are working together to mentally, physically and emotionally support one another. It is about “we” not “I” worldwide because we are all affected.
At this stage, we are well aware of the basic, necessary measures we must take including washing our hands, not touching our face, social distancing, respiratory hygiene (cover your face when coughing or sneezing), and checking in with ourselves and our bodies for symptoms, discomfort, wellbeing (WHO – Advice for public).
"Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy." Dale Carnegie
What else can you do?
We are not helpless. There is so much more we can do to ensure the strength of our immune system, as this is instrumental when we are faced with viruses, or in this case a pandemic. Prevention is and has always been the best medicine. Even if we do get infected, a strong immune system will lower the impact and support a faster recovery.
My top tips to maximize your health today:
Healthy diet: Start by reducing sugar, processed foods, sweetened beverages, caffeine, alcohol. Replace these with lots of water, herbal teas, fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy proteins and whole grains
Avoid negative news: Stop watching/reading negative news all day: We know people, the economy, financial markets, our futures are in trouble. Negative news create stress, anxiety and fear. With stress, your immune system’s ability to fight off antigens is reduced and you become more susceptible to infections (Simply psychology: Stress, Illness and the Immune System)
Commit to and reduce key risk factors today: Alcohol consumption, smoking, excessive weight
Get sufficient, high-quality sleep
Walk at least 8,000 steps per day or move in any way, anywhere
Educate yourself: Youtube, Ted Talks, books, factual blogs, documentaries on health, psychology, philosophy, geography, culture, music, sports, etc.!
Listen to music, dance, sing, cook, play games, watch comedies – entertain yourself in a positive way
Love and kindness:
Take care of your relationships and reach out to loved ones by leveraging technology: This is the time to put aside old grudges and be there for one another. If not now, when?
Smile and encourage laughter
Express gratitude: Write down at least 5 new items every day, or even better, share these with your loved ones and those you interact with.
Give thanks: Everyone is trying to minimize the impact of the situation and many are doing so at the risk of their own health to provide us with food, healthcare, public transportation, mail and more. Never forget to show appreciation.
As a Health Coach I am here to support you in learning these preventative and supportive measures to enhance your health and well-being along with the strength of your immune system not only now but moving forward. Health Coaching via video calls is an ideal option in the current situation. Health is Wealth - your foundation for success.
Visit my website for more information and contact me today to get started with a free discovery call!