This past week has been filled with uncertainty, stress, and measures that have forced many of us to break from our daily routine. While feelings of fear, anxiety, sadness, and uncertainty are completely normal, the more we stress, the more vulnerable we become to viruses– because stress can dampen your immune response. Fortunately, there are several steps we can take to prioritize our mental health during these times and keep both our minds and bodies strong.
Ways to practice self-wellness include:
Limiting media consumption, and only reading news from reliable sources
While it is important to remain in the know, too much media coverage and information can become problematic and induce unnecessary fear. Avoid media outlets that build hype or dwell on things that can’t be controlled. Instead, turn to sources that give reliable information about how to protect yourself, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).Â
Frequently washing hands
- The coronavirus is transmitted through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land on shared surfaces, like tables, buttons, etc. If one touches a contaminated surface, then their face, they can become infected. Thus frequent hand washing has been considered the best defense against the virus. Wash for 20 seconds or more using soap and water to avoid getting the virus, or transmitting it to others.Â
- Practicing self care:
These are just a few of the many practices that can help promote feelings of well-being and ultimately boost your immunity.
Getting a good night’s sleep
- Eat well
- Drink plenty of water
- Participating in uplifting leisure activities
Performing mind-body exercises, like yoga and meditation
While mindfulness activities, like yoga and meditation, don’t keep you free from disease, they enable you to unplug from the news for a bit, reduce panic and get more in touch with your own inner wisdom and resilience. There are plenty of ways to access yoga and meditation while at home: try an app such as Headspace or Simply Being or YouTube videos.