Looking after your physical, mental health

It is without question that the COVID-19 pandemic threw all of us off the track.

Suddenly, we are forced to stay inside our homes. We cannot meet up with friends nor can we give our loved ones a hug. We are faced with drastic changes in our jobs, we are anxious about our finances, and we worry about what tomorrow will bring. We find ourselves extremely frustrated as our lives seem to do a 180-degree turn and we cannot do anything about it.

Even now that we are easing into the “new normal,” we find ourselves still having to adjust greatly, even when it comes to simple must-do’s. We sometimes forget to be mindful when it comes to observing proper physical distancing, wearing face masks especially when around people, refraining from touching surfaces when in public. and needing to clean and disinfect the things that we bring inside the house.

On top of having to deal with the stress and adapt to the new normal, we need to make sure that our body and mind are nourished well and are in good condition. According to the Pacific Neuroscience Institute (PNI), being under a tremendous amount of stress “can dampen our immune systems, making us more susceptible to sickness.”

Keep yourself engaged in fun activities that stimulate the brain.

Do mental exercises

Being socially isolated from friends and family can make one at risk of developing mood disorders and even dementia. Healthline suggests having fun with a jigsaw puzzle, playing cards, building your vocabulary, learning a new skill or language, listening to music and meditating as effective brain exercises that can help boost your memory, concentration and focus.

Get enough rest and shut-eye

Get enough sleep

Notice how easily you develop colds or feel unable to function efficiently when you lack sleep? A good night’s sleep is important for physical and cognitive health, advises the PNI. It can help improve productivity and performance as well as boost your immune system. Make sure that you get at least 7 hours of quality shut-eye every day.

Treat your body to healthy meals every day.

Eat a balanced diet

It’s so easy to snarf down that bag of potato chips in one sitting, especially amid all the discomfort we’re going through right now—and that’s alright. Remember though that you need to look after your body now more than ever, and that means having to eat healthy.

Many online shops offer delivery of fresh produce so stocking up on fruits, vegetables and even meat is no longer a problem. And since we are still advised to stay at home and limit our time outside, you might as well use the time to prepare healthier, home-cooked meals or experiment in the kitchen.

Swing by Medicard’s blog and Facebook pages for healthy and uplifting tips to help you go through this pandemic.

Health maintenance organization Medicard Philippines Inc. offers in its Medicard Lifestyle blog (medicardlifestyle.com) health pointers, health-related stories and recipes which can serve as a guide to a healthier and more clear-headed you. The blog even has a Fitness Corner for easy-to-follow yoga exercises by Surya Fitness and Yoga. Medicard’s Facebook page, facebook.com/MediCard.PH, also has loads of tips on how to care for yourself amid this pandemic.

Well aware of the impact that COVID-19 has on Filipinos’ physical and mental health, Medicard has taken steps to somehow help members and nonmembers alike cope with these trying times.

Sources: American Psychological Association, apa.org, Healthline, healthline.com, Pacific Neuroscience Institute, pacificneuroscienceinstitute.org Photos by Magda Ehlers, Ihsan Aditya from Pexels