The coronavirus pandemic affects each of us – not just those who have contracted the virus. As the number of new cases continue to rise, people are facing the health effects of the coronavirus, particularly concerning mental well-being. We are experiencing stress, anxiety, and isolation. “A federal emergency hotline for people in emotional distress registered a more than 1,000 percent increase in April compared with the same time last year.” (Washington Post) Therefore, implementing healthy lifestyle practices into our daily routine is crucial. 

With coronavirus quarantine restrictions, more people are expected to stay inside each day. Though the basis of quarantine is to keep coronavirus under control and keep hospitals from being overwhelmed, there has been a significant rise in mental health issues. 

With no cure or vaccination in sight, millions of people are experiencing increased levels of fear. Whether it be that they are afraid their loved ones are vulnerable to becoming ill or are concerned about their financial situation, there is a consensus that anxiety, depression and loneliness are at their peak across the nation.

These anxious and troublesome thoughts cause our physical health to decline. We tend to have difficulties with sleeping, being active and controlling our appetite when stressed. These unhealthy behaviors weaken one’s immune system. Making us even more vulnerable to contracting the virus. Additionally, people have been increasing their use of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs in response to the coronavirus.

Alongside anxiety, people are being isolated and developing depression. By not being able to socialize with others or being afraid to go outside, several individuals are feeling lonely and depressed.

In times of adversity, mental health is just as important as physical health. Denny Waxman has prepared 9 tips to reduce your risk of getting harmful health effects from the coronavirus.

Getting a good amount of sleep is essential to protecting your mental and physical health. By sleeping 7-8 hours, our brains can relax from stress and consolidate our memories from the day. Having a consistent sleep schedule allows our bodies to repair themselves and be in peak shape to fight off the coronavirus. 

Remember, good sleep is going to bed at a decent hour and getting up early to start the day. 

Staying active is proven to provide numerous positive health effects. At least 30 minutes of moderate exercise a day can improve your mood, energy levels, and immune system. Some activities may include walks, runs, yoga, aerobics, and swimming.

Going outside is also beneficial to our well-being. As it makes us feel energized and relaxed. If you are staying inside for an extended period, make it a daily goal to go outside, enjoy the fresh air, and take a break from artificial lighting.

As several are feeling stressed and isolated, it is important to reach out to those closest to us. We are social beings and seeing others can relieve feelings of anxiety and depression. Whether it be through a video call or saying hello from 6 feet apart, any interaction can make a positive difference in our mental wellness.

Staying inside is not an excuse for eating unhealthy foods. Sticking to a clean, healthy diet, like macrobiotics, can reduce your potential of damaging health effects. Stress eating and consuming foods high in sugar and fat can put you at risk of developing physical health problems. (Start a macrobiotic diet)

By sticking to an eating schedule, you can regulate your energy and blood sugar levels. People who are inconsistent with their mealtimes are disrupting their body’s metabolization processes and may experience a decrease in their mood and weight gain. We recommend having breakfast by 8:30, lunch between 11-1, and dinner between 5-7:30.

With no distractions, meals are more enjoyable. Instead of laying down and watching a movie during dinner, sit up, and be thankful for the meal in front of you. While eating, appreciate the flavor of each bite, where the meal came from, and how it was prepared.

The coronavirus is highly discussed and is bound to be on social media and TV programs. If the coronavirus is cultivating stress for you, it may be effective to keep technology use to a minimum.

No matter what is going on, do what makes you happy – read a book, paint, do a puzzle, etc. Doing the activities that bring us joy guarantee happiness and relief.

Reducing the health effects of the coronavirus may be as simple as living in the moment and being present. By appreciating what is around you, you may find that even the littlest things can cultivate hope and happiness and decrease feelings of loneliness and worry.

The best thing you can do to take care of yourself during the coronavirus quarantine is to get help. Denny Waxman has over 45 years of experience with helping clients start healthy lifestyles. Denny Waxman offers one-hour macrobiotic consultations with clients to plan a diet that provides them the health they want alongside gratifying life practices.

For more interesting articles about nutrition, macrobiotics, and living a healthy lifestyle, please visit Denny’s macrobiotic blog.