Shelter in place and thrive!
By Lisa Vonnegut, co-owner of Bay Functional Fitness and Body Synergy FitCation, and personal trainer
Shelter-in-place is new territory for most of us. It’s difficult to predict how the initial novelty of this situation might degrade into boredom and chafing at our restrictions. As we face the reality of weeks at home without the demands or structure of work, school or social commitments, having a game plan can make the difference between coping and climbing the walls. Here are a few tips to help everyone shelter in place and thrive.
S — Stress Management. Uncertainty promotes anxiety — so does the prospect of time at home with small children and no playdates. Or the financial stress of unexpected job loss or unpaid time off. A self-care routine is vital to keep stress at bay. Identify things that nourish your spirit and adapt those activities to your current situation. There are online classes and apps for meditation and guided visualization. Other items on this list might also help out :)
H — Helping others. The loneliness of social distancing can be mitigated with the recognition that we are coming together as a community. An elderly couple next door might need a few groceries or a single mom down the street might need a few minutes to herself. We can maintain a physical distance while still connecting with one another.
E — Exercise. If the weather is nice, go for a walk. If you need to stay indoors, look for streaming yoga, pilates, dance or bodyweight workouts. Moderate movement provides an antidote to stagnation, stimulating your body and your brain.
L — Learning. Your mind needs stimulation as much as your body does. Watch that documentary you’ve been hearing about. Take an online class. Teach yourself to juggle, draw, or play chess, or read that biography that’s been on your Kindle for years.
T — Tracking your food. It’s tempting to sit on the couch with a bag of chips and make a few hours disappear with Netflix. There’s nothing wrong with this (in moderation) but an extra handful of snacks here and there can add up without you noticing. Journaling what you eat will help prevent overindulging and make sure you’re getting enough of each macronutrient, as well. My Fitness Pal and Chronometer are good online resources.
E — Escape. Books, movies, music, and other forms of entertainment will help take your mind off the restrictions. Think about that book at the bottom of your nightstand… isn't it a good time to pick it up? Connect with your friends and play a game online or do a family puzzle.
R — Routine — Maintain a normal routine (or at least a routine) as best you can. Wake up and go to bed on time. Shower and dress for your day. Keep meals and exercise plans consistent. Insert a little structure to avoid the uncertainty of long hours to fill.
Most of all, keep perspective. Temporary measures are designed to protect our community, not drive us apart. With a little common sense and a good plan, we can thrive together, on our own.