The Six Keys to Optimal Health Can Be A Lifeline.

Parts of the world are starting to see recovery from COVID-19, but we still have a long way to go before we can be protected from this virus. There are reasons to be optimistic and look forward to getting back to normal.  But how will we define normal in the months and years ahead?  Terrorist attacks changed the travel industry forever, and COVID-19 will have a similar effect on the way we live.  In turbulent times, it’s natural to find comfort in the traditions and activities we enjoyed in the past. But how can we go back to living as if this pandemic never happened or nothing has changed? We need to protect ourselves and families now more than ever. We must safeguard our physical and mental health, stay strong, and determined to find ways to thrive. In changing times, the Six Keys to Optimal Health can be a lifeline.

Diet –

It’s more important now to maintain a healthy diet, but some foods may be in short supply.  So, you may have to improvise.  If the meat counter is bare, substitute eggplant or mushrooms.  They are inexpensive and healthy options to add to marinara sauce for pasta dishes.  If eggs are hard to source, alternatives like unsweetened applesauce, bananas, and avocado will work in most baked goods. There are lots of helpful suggestions all over the internet.  Another issue right now is portion control.  Many are overeating as a result of boredom and anxiety. If you find yourself reaching for snacks too often, drink half a glass of water every time they tempt you. Another option is to take a lap around the house or do a few exercises. It’s healthier for both your mind and body.

Exercise – 

You are probably stuck at home.  Your gym is closed.  You might even feel a bit sluggish from binge-watching television and overeating.  Now is the time to be extra dedicated to exercise, and there are lots of home-based options.  You can follow yoga and tai chi classes online from your living room.  In the same space, you can still do pushups, lunges, crunches, and burpees. If you live in a high-rise building, walk the stairs. 

Getting outside is important but remaining socially distant from others is necessary. Find a secluded trail to walk, run, or ride a bike.  Swim laps if you have a backyard pool.  If you live on a lake or near a large body of water, paddle boarding and kayaking might be options. There are so many options, and if you are no longer commuting to work, you have extra time to fit in a workout every day.    

Renewal —

We need to keep fears from affecting our mental health. To stay more positive, practice gratitude every day and limit yourself to the amount of TV news you watch. Instead of binge-watching, use the time to brush up on your skills or learn a new one.  There are several teaching websites like Skillshare and Creative Live.  They offer affordable classes in almost everything, from computer software to baking to bartending.

One guaranteed way to feel better is to help your neighbors.  If you bake cookies, leave a few in a ziplock bag by a neighbor’s doorstep with a short note wishing them well.  If you make a weekly grocery run, offer to pick up some items for them, especially if they are elderly or not feeling well. Learning new things and helping others will keep you from anxiety and depression during these unsettled times. Every day I see examples of people helping their neighbors and community. It’s heartwarming.  Do your part, and it will touch your soul.

Sleep –

You might be getting more sleep than usual right now. That’s a good thing since sleep boosts the immune system naturally and it’s one of the Six Keys to Optimal Health.  Now more than ever, get at least 8 hours a night. If you need help falling asleep, check out our recent blog, Tips to Improve the Quality of Your Sleep.  If you are having trouble getting to sleep, many of our clients fall asleep faster by taking CBD gummy bears or rings. Visit my website for more information and call me to place an order.

Supplementation –

According to Healthline, the top five immune-boosting supplements you should take right now are:

1. Vitamin D is essential for immune function and can lower the risk of respiratory infections.
2. Zinc may help protect against respiratory tract infections.  If you have one, it can reduce the duration of the infection.
3. Vitamin C is vital for immune health and can reduce the severity of an upper respiratory infection.
4. Elderberry may reduce symptoms of upper respiratory infections caused by viruses.
5. Selenium supports antiviral defense systems that fight many strains of the flu, including H1N1.

Other immune-boosting supplements include garlic, licorice, B-Complex Vitamins, turmeric, and Echinacea.  Many of my clients take the M’Lis supplement Vital. It is an powerful antioxidant containing Astaxanthin, 300 mg of Vitamin C, Selenium, and Ginkgo Biloba that naturally boosts the immune system.

Water –

Water carries oxygen to each cell in your body and transports waste away.  Since cells are the building blocks of the systems in your body, this process helps to ensure proper function.  One of those systems in the immune system.  So, to ensure your immune systems is performing at its peak, make sure to drink at least eight glasses a day.  Learn more about how important water is by reading our recent article Why Your Best Days Start with Water.

These are challenging times for everyone.  The world has changed and is more uncertain than ever.  When we think about what the future holds, it’s easy to get anxious and fearful. But you don’t need to be a victim. You can always take action, and that will give you a sense of empowerment and confidence.  Protect your family by focusing on the Six Keys to Optimal Health.  It can be a physical and mental lifeline, now more than ever. Things will get better. People are good. We will help each other, persevere, and thrive. That’s what we do.