Being stuck at home means getting out of our normal routine, which can be difficult for many of us. We are doing a lot of things differently including eating, exercising, socializing and managing stress.
So how do we manage being at home and staying healthy at the same time?
Here is a list of six health-promoting behaviors that will help improve your physical and emotional health while you are at home.
1. Eat consistently throughout the day.
Plan to have a meal or snack every 3-5 hours during waking hours.
Eating more often and consistently helps our body balance hormones to help maintain normal blood sugars and hunger and fullness cues.
Prevents us from overeating later in the day.
2. Plan physical movement into your day
What movement brings you joy and makes your body feel good? Do that!
When we plan movement we enjoy we are more likely to actually engage in it and get a larger benefit from it.
3. Get outside!
Catching some sun-rays helps our bodies produce Vitamin D, also known as the happy vitamin.
Higher levels of Vitamin D are associated with improved mood and happiness.
4. Incorporate stress management into your day
Needless to say, we are all stressed and could use some stress relieving activities.
What helps you reduce stress and anxiety? Are you someone who needs to meditate, go for a walk, cook, sleep, read or watch tv.
Make a goal to do at least one stress management activity a day.
5. Go to bed/wake up at a similar time everyday
Having a regular sleep routine helps us feel better physically and mentally. When we are rested we have more energy and ability to work, exercise and make healthier food choices.
6. Connect with friends and family
The #1 determinant of health is social connection. We may not be able to be physically close with our family and friends right now but we can still feel connected through video, voice or text chat!
Of all these health-promoting behaviors, where are you struggling most? Pick one and focus on it first then add others in!