With the Corona pandemic going into its second year, being constantly in COVID-mode is most likely starting to take its toll on your physical and mental health if it hasn’t already. Staying at home most of the time, maybe even working from home, not being able to eat out at restaurants, not being able to freely meet friends and family, let alone go traveling.
But your health is PRICELESS. So, doing whatever you can to build up and guard your immune system is worth it.
I’ve put together a quick self-assessment checklist list that I personally try to follow every day, and I thought I would share it with you to help you stay healthy, too.
This list isn’t just important right now in the midst of everything going on; it’s something we should be paying attention to for the rest of our lives!
How are your stress levels?
A little everyday stress (like the kind you get from workouts) is good because it stimulates your immune system and spurs you to take action.
But chronic stress (like the kind you get from the ongoing Corona pandemic) takes a toll on your body (and mind) over time and leaves you susceptible to illness.
If you find yourself feeling tense or anxious and are having trouble sleeping or relaxing, make time to UNPLUG! Step away from the news and digital devices and take time to relax. Breathing techniques, quiet time, slow yoga, or meditation work wonders.
Are you eating enough veggies and fruits for antioxidant power?
The USDA recommends 5-9 servings a day, and some experts even recommend 10+ for even more benefit.
One serving = ½ cup fruits and veggies, or 1 cup leafy greens.
This can help give your body the micronutrients it needs to power up your immune response.
Are you getting at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week?
And up to 1 hour if you’re doing moderate exercises like brisk walking or light cardio?
This is so important because:
Exercise boosts immunity by causing changes in your illness-fighting antibodies and white blood cells (an important part of your immune system). Plus, being physically active can help flush bacteria out of your lungs and airway!
Workouts raise your body temperature slightly, which may prevent bacteria from growing, and also might help you fight infection.
Exercise can help burn off stress. As I mentioned above, chronic stress is not good for your immune system.
Are you getting at least 6-7 hours of sleep at night?
If you don’t get enough sleep, your body makes fewer cytokines, a type of protein that targets infection and inflammation, creating an immune response.
Are you washing your hands every time you need to and keep your hands away from your face?
This helps prevent the spread of any bugs and viruses you’ve picked up.
Are you smoking or drinking too much alcohol?
Among many other things, alcohol can mess with your sleep, your workouts, and your food choices. Personally, I completely stopped having any alcohol several years ago and never looked back. Sure, at first, it sometimes felt like I was spoiling my fun by giving up on my beloved bubblies whenever I felt like celebrating, but the energy boost I gained from switching to sparkling water was one of the best trade-offs I ever made.
It’s a simple list, but it’s a powerful one. Remember it’s the basics that matter most.
What else can you do for your self-care during the pandemic – especially when you have to spend a lot of time at home?
DOWNLOAD my new FREE eBook “At-Home Survival Kit – Staying Healthy and in Balance During the Corona Pandemic.”
Click the button below to get your FREE guidebook!
P.S.: How did you score in your self-assessment? Did you identify some areas that could need a bit more self-care so as to strengthen your immune health and get through the Corona pandemic the best way possible?
