The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way everyone is living their daily lives. Due to the pandemic, people are suggested to stay at home in quarantine, practice social distancing, and avoid as much interaction with others as possible. However, this does not interrupt staying mentally and physically active. Below are 5 ways one can stay active while being in the house.
1. Walks, Jogs, Bikes Rides
Public health officials have permitted walks, jogs, or bike rides in neighborhoods or local parks. However, the public health officials are requiring people to maintain the minimum 6 feet distance between other people. Physical activity and going outside for some Vitamin C are good for mental health as well. Ali Berg, University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Nutrition Specialist said, “Levels of the recommended physical activity are also good for maintaining immunity, in addition to adequate diet and nutrition.”
2. Move around the house
There may be times when going outside and moving around is not an option, but moving around the house will still keep you active. Two different types of activities that require active movement is cooking and cleaning. Everyday Health, an expert site on health said, “Cleaning your house can incorporate a variety of muscle groups without you even realizing it and a 150-pound person with vigorous cleaning burns 102 calories in 30 minutes.” On the other hand, there are many people who do not think cooking is an exercise. Cooking requires movement such as chopping, standing, and even thinking. It’s a great exercise for mental health as well and some people may think it is relaxing.
3. Sneak in Exercise
Unless you are an exercise fanatic, it can be challenging to take your eyes off the tv and leave your bed or couch to get some physical exercise. However, there is a way you can do some of your favorite things while exercising. Everyday Health said, “Try some jumping jacks, pushups, or any exercise during the commercial breaks.” The next time you find yourself wanting to watch tv; but needing to exercise, try to sneak in some of those good and simple workouts.
4. Self-care & Relaxation
There are several different types of self-care one can focus on with their relaxation routine. One can focus on their emotional self-care, physical self-care, mental self-care, and social self-care. Every type of self-care has vital actions in order to leave one feeling more wholesome than before. Elizabeth Scott MS, a wellness coach said, “Reading a book or doing a puzzle is good for mental self-care, but meditating or praying is good for spiritual self-care.”
5. Have fun!
It may not always be easy to look on the brighter side during hard times, but one should remember to have fun no matter the circumstances. Instead of thinking of this time being boring, take this time to engage in creative activities or the things you never have time to do. Parents who have younger children can set up an obstacle course inside or a scavenger hunt. Joshua Paine, a wellness and health writer for UGA Today said, “Encourage family members to put down devices and turn on upbeat music and get active.”
The pandemic may have stopped people from going out, but it did not stop people from continuing to stay active. Remember to take walks, jogs, or bike rides, move around the house, sneak in some exercise, practice self-care, and overall have some good fun!
