COVID-19 and Exercise: How To Safely Remain Active
The work-from-home directive resulting from the surge of COVID-19 has rendered most of us with a lot more time to spare. When you take a look outside early in the morning or even in the evening, you will notice a stream of people jogging, stretching or perhaps just watching those who are exercising.
Is it that we are bored with the extra time, already? Are we feeling claustrophobic? Or is it something to do with COVID-19 and exercise that you know? Whatever your reasons, keeping active has several benefits for your overall well being, including boosting your immune to fight COVID-19.
Also read: All You Need To Know About Corona virus Symptoms And Risks
The novel corona virus scourge has rampaged the world, leaving death and economic destruction. Further, the pandemic is leading to causal effects termed ‘the Shadow Pandemic’ by U.N. experts.
COVID-19 and Depression
The nuclear household which has long been presumed as a place of safety is telling a different story. This moment has revealed and exacerbated underlying and preexisting conditions of DOMESTIC violence.
The new measures in place affecting socialization are also expected to contribute to the rise of levels of loneliness, depression, harmful use of alcohol and drugs as well as self-harm and suicidal thoughts.
We are in a crisis; thus, it is normal to feel stressed, sad, angry, confused or even scared. Staying at home during these trying times is the best way to protect yourself and those you love.
It is easy to pick up bad habits such as consuming copious amounts of food, excessive consumption of alcohol, beige watching, among others. As such, you might want to reconsider your habits.
COVID-19 and Exercise
Regular physical activity will benefit both your body and mind. The exercise entails any form of active physical activity. Since going to the gym is out of option, short non-tedious exercises such as walking or stretching, will help ease muscle strain, relieve mental tension and improve blood circulation and muscle activity.
So, how do you stay active at home?
1. Reducing the amount of time spent sitting.
Be it for work, studying or catching up on all the movies that you had missed, reduce the time you spend sitting by taking 3-5 minute breaks every 20-30 minutes. You can:
- Stand up and stretch
- Go up and down the stairs
- Go out to the balcony and notice the butterfly flying past
- Skip rope
- Teach your son how to change the bulb
- Sign up to an online exercise class
The options are limitless.
2. Create a routine
A routine will ensure you’re not stuck doing the same thing for too long. It will also maintain your cognitive abilities. Schedule your wake up time, the day’s work, physical activity, you can have a prayer corner and schedule time for it too. This way, each day will have its share of stimuli, and you will also remember what day it is.
3. Be active with your friends and family
We are still social beings, even after being confined to our homes. Connecting with your family and friends at home or elsewhere can help you spend time with them and be active, albeit virtually.
This will further alleviate loneliness and depression. Creating a virtual workout session with your friends and family will be fun and make for precious memories.
4. Exercise and mental health
Do not abuse alcohol or other drugs to deal with your emotions. Regular physical activity is one of the best ways to relieve stress. Moreover, speak to a relative, friend or even a health worker if you feel overwhelmed.
Learn a new skill, fix that crack you have been ignoring, or start that hanging garden on your balcony for fresh vegetables. The bottom line is do something; avoid idleness as this could also trigger drug and alcohol abuse.
The above COVID-19 and exercise tips will help you maintain a healthy lifestyle during this period of crisis. Achieving optimal health will help you ward off diseases such as the COVID-19. Do not exercise if you have COVID-19 symptoms. Stay hydrated, rest and seek medical attention.
