Staying Healthy in a Changing World
Updated: May 27, 2020
Written by: Tim Licudine of Fulcrum Wellness
It's amazing how the world can change so drastically and yet, the basics for staying healthy stay the same. Here are the pillars of health and a few tips to stay healthy during these shifting times.
Nutrition
With many people being stuck at home, it becomes easier to resort to stress eating or eating out of boredom. If you have more time on your hands, it may be a good idea to plan out your meals for the week. This will help you allot a specific amount of food for the week and should reduce the possibility of overeating.
Activity
Make sure to plan at least one or two activities a day. I would recommend doing a variety of activities - these could include a physical activity, like taking a walk around the neighbourhood park; a mental activity, like reading a book; or a social activity - like a phone or video call. As a fitness trainer I can't stress enough that you should get at least 150 minutes of moderate activity a week. Not only will it keep you physically healthy, but it could also improve your mood, energy, and mental capacity.
Sleep
Whether your daily schedule has shifted or not, the body loves having a sleep rhythm. Whether you are sleeping through the day or rising the moment the sun touches the sky, sticking to a consistent sleep schedule will add some structure to the chaos and ensure that you are well rested to tackle your next day. Try to aim for that 6 - 8 hours of sleep, whatever task you are doing will still be there the next day.
Quiet Time
As tempting as it is to try and get everything done with your new found time, you have to balance it with rest. Take consistent 15 minute breaks from whatever activity is keeping you busy. This will allow you to do 3 things: rest your mind, process information that you couldn't while you were doing your activities, and recharge your battery. Being still for 15 minutes may be all you need to ready yourself for whatever you're doing next.
Kindness
Last but not least on this list is practicing kindness. With the world being in its current state, our thoughts and emotions can ride each moment like a roller coaster. Even if you don't get that 8 hours of sleep or miss an activity for the day, it's okay. It's okay to feel the feelings that you are feeling. It's okay if things don't feel normal right now. Just keeping doing you, one day at a time. Be kind to yourself. You're doing the best that you can.
For more health tips and tricks, contact Tim@fulcrumwellness.ca
Also, check Tim out on Instagram @fulcrum_wellness