In this time when we are social distancing, a time where gyms are closed, kids are home from school, and anxiety seems to be mounting, it is particularly important to find ways to incorporate movement and physical activity into your day. Being active has great mental health benefits, not to mention physiological benefits (such as drop in blood pressure, decreased resting heart rate).
Take a Walk
Whether its walking to your mailbox several times throughout the day, or simply walking around your yard, try to incorporate some fresh air into your day. If the weather does not cooperate, you can try to do more steps around your house. Make multiple trips to the washing machine or only filling your glass half way so you have to go to the kitchen again to refill. Little steps add up. You do not need continuous activity to make it count!
Home Work Outs
There are hundreds of different exercises you can do at home without equipment. Try to do something active during otherwise “static” activities. For example, you could do heel raises while you brush your teeth in the morning and at night. You could do a circuit of exercises during commercials (squats, bicep curls, lunges, shoulder raises, side bends). The possibilities are endless and we, as therapists, are happy to give you ideas that fit your lifestyle and interests. Feel free to reach out if you need some guidance.
Play Active Games
Put the card games and Monopoly aside and pull out charades, twister, or other games that require you to get up and move around! Keeping things fun and light during difficult times is important for the soul. Take the time to blow bubbles with the kids (no matter how much of a mess it makes), put aside your humility and dance to your favorite music; just remember to HAVE FUN!
Household chores
With many people being home more, there are opportunities to tackle bigger tasks that you have been putting off. Clean out your closets, paint a room, do yard work. All of these activities are not only productive, but they keep you moving.
With so much changing in the world around us, don’t let your health and fitness decline. Remember, the little movements throughout the day count. to avoid feeling isolated during times of social distancing, stay connected through text, phone calls, face-time, etc. And know that we here at Lifeline are committed to providing our patients with a safe and healthy environment for rehabilitation. For those of you unable to come to the clinic, we are also providing home visits and e-visits during this time. We want to bridge the gap for you until you can return to the clinic!
