Best Practices for staying healthy – “The ReThink Way”

“ReThink” the way you stay healthy”

We know everyone is under a lot of stress about this COVID-19 pandemic. We know how difficult it must be playing teacher to your kids and caring for your family both young and old all while you are now forced to work from home remotely full time.  You’re feeling anxious and isolated and separated from loved ones. On the other hand, maybe you’re essential? Sounds better on paper, doesn’t it? The fact is, as essential workers you are on the front lines and you don’t know if you may bring this virus back home to your family. Nerve-racking, to say the least. These are the times we are living in. Times of uncertainty that creates mental anguish over health, finances and the future. Stress during an infectious disease outbreak can include fear and worry about your health and the health of your loved ones. Changes in sleep or eating pattern. Difficulty sleeping or concentrating. Worsening of chronic health problems. Worsening of mental health conditions.

There is a list of things for you to remember to stay healthy and keep your wits about you. It is in times like this not only is it important to stay healthy not only physically but mentally as well, which can be a challenge. Please remember, above all, keep things in perspective. Get the facts through reputable sources. Speak to your children about what is happening and reassure them. Remember kids react in part by what they see and hear from the adults around them. Take a break from media, even social media as hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting. Most of all, practice mindfulness. Remember we are all going through this and handle stress differently, so be kind to each other.

This new normal requires new habits. Let’s start with proper handwashing and if you are out and about we urge you to keep a hand sanitizer with you. This item has become essential to the fight against bacteria. Use it on your car door handle, steering wheel, cleaning your bank card after making your grocery purchases. It is a great idea to use it to sanitize any online orders you may be receiving so you don’t have to leave the house. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. I bet you never thought you touched your face as much as you do. Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue and discard immediately, or into the inner part of your elbow. Stay home when sick. If you must venture out, please use a suitable mask like the KN95. Wear your face mask when coming within 6 feet of a sick person or if you are sick or if you are immune-compromised.  Position the strings to keep the mask firmly in place over the nose and chin. When you are done wearing the face mask, dispose of it properly.  Last but not least, eat a diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Fruits and vegetables are your friends and keep you healthy by boosting your immune system. In times like these, you can kick it up by taking supplements like Vitamin D, Zinc, Elderberry, Ginger and with inflammation being at the root of illness, take a good CBD as a roll-on anti-inflammatory.