[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]We all know that eating right and staying active are essential. But how do you manage excellent self-care in the age of social distancing? As local, state, and federal public health officials continue to urge us to practice social isolation, we’re all adjusting to new ways of life. One in five Americans has been ordered to stay at home, only permitted to venture out for essential services like trips to the grocery store.
Gyms and community pools have closed, and exercise classes are indefinitely canceled. With physical activity grinding to a halt, you may wonder what steps you can take to stay active and healthy, especially if you’re part of the 70+ crowd, a demographic particularly vulnerable to Coronavirus. Here are some steps you can take towards better health despite COVID-19.
Healthy Eating Tips
Loading up on fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy carbs remain standard practices of nutritious eating. What do you do, however, when food variety proves limited?
Given what’s available at your grocery store, try to fill your plate with real food. Also, avoid:
- Processed foods
- Sugar-filled foods
- Foods with artificial ingredients
Frozen or canned fruits and vegetables work when the fresh produce section dwindles. Also, add legumes, seeds, nuts, and nut butters to your grocery list. These shelf-stable items provide protein, some electrolytes, and unsaturated fats. They’re also delicious and easy additions to oatmeal, grains (e.g., amaranth, quinoa, rice), salads, and smoothies.
When you cook, cut down on food waste by freezing leftovers. That way, you’ll also benefit from a ready supply of meals when you don’t feel like cooking. Remember, too, that you can freeze loaves of multi-grain bread. That way, you’ll have bread on hand when you need it.
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Exercise at Home
Yes, gyms and public pools may be closed, but that doesn’t mean you should slack when it comes to physical activity. Because the limitations of quarantine make us more sedentary, exercise is now more critical than ever.
Alternatives to the gym include exercises that you can do while maintaining a safe distance from others. Think hiking, biking, or going for a brisk walk. Yoga is a fantastic way to stay fit and active while cultivating mindfulness and tranquility. Aspired Elements is offering online yoga classes, and you can find out more about them at their website.
Because resistance training remains so critical to maintaining muscle and bone health, especially as we age, don’t forget to incorporate some resistance exercises into your daily routine, too. Check out my complimentary videos to get you started
Self-Care During Coronavirus Quarantine
Unprecedented times call for innovative solutions. Fortunately, self-care doesn’t have to suffer during this time of self-isolation. Use the tips above to eat healthy no matter what the selection at the store looks like, and remember to find ways throughout the day to get moving.
Are you ready to reclaim your youth, vibrancy, and sexy body at 50+? Great! I’m here to help. Access my free video training now to jumpstart your journey into the Age Well System. Or book a complimentary phone call to discuss your fitness goals and how we can work together to achieve them.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][/vc_column][/vc_row]