The circumstances of the collective in this moment, with a raging pandemic that doesn’t feel like it’s ever going to cease, and heightened anxiety around the election in the U.S., are anything but conducive to optimal health. These circumstances for many are stressful, anxiety inducing, chaotic and uncomfortable. So, as you can imagine, all of this is also wreaking havoc on our health - physically, emotionally, mentally, biochemically -- basically, in all ways possible. What we must remember is that we WILL get through it, eventually.
However, there are things we can do today, things we can focus on and control, to help us weather this storm and come out stronger on the other end. Things we can do that will help us to prevent chronic disease in the aftermath of these never-before-seen circumstances. (There are also things we can do and choose that will have the opposite effect, but we are focused on the positive here). Below you will find 6 things you can do that will help you be healthier, not sicker, on the other side:
1) Focus on real, whole foods & hydration with clean water. This means avoiding processed, packaged, and chemical laden products. Instead, eat lots of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, healthy fats, lean proteins. Focus on drinking lots of clean, fresh water as your main source of liquids.
2) Sleep deeply to allow your body to rest and replenish, every night. This means turning off your devices and electronics and TV and artificial lights a few hours before bed time. Relax, and allow your mind and body to wind down before heading off to sleep. Sleep in a cool, dark room without disruption and a lot of noise
3) Step away from chronic stressors, stimulants and depressants such as caffeine, sugar, and alcohol as well as constant media.
4) Move your body in ways that feel good and fit with your life - every day. Don’t be stagnant and stuck. Walk, run, jump, dance, bike, climb stairs, lift weights, stretch. Do something, every day.
5) Make time daily for rejuvenation and stress relief practices such as meditation, breathing, gratitude journaling, intention setting.
6) Social connection is still very important. Although socially distant - staying connected reduces feelings of loneliness, stress, anxiety and depression. FaceTime with loved ones far away, or go for a socially distant walk with a friend. My new favorite app is called Marco Polo where you can leave short video messages for friends and they can respond when they have the time. It’s a great way to connect with people across time zones.
They aren't huge steps. Rather, the above are small steps that we can take on a daily basis. Choices that we can make again and again, to help us weather the storm. These health-promoting steps will lead you to be stronger and less sick when we do emerge from this chaos (which, we must all believe, will eventually happen).
For more information or help putting these and other lifestyle & health-promoting steps into practice, reach out to Payal at payal@arorawellness.com. Payal is a certified health coach, owner of Arora Wellness, and is currently studying functional medicine to bring a deeper level of healing and wellness to women around the world.