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KEEPING YOURSELF HEALTHY WHILE STILL SOCIAL DISTANCING

The coronavirus, or COVID-19, has caused a large shift in how we live our day to day lives. With people working from home, business shutting down, and limits on how much we can get out of the house, this time has caused mass amounts of uncertainty. We want to remind you that these feelings of uncertainty are okay. Everyone is going through this together, and while it may seem like a scary time, there are certain things that you can do to help maintain some sense of normalcy, especially when it comes to your health. In this blog post, we will be discussing some ways you can maintain your health while still practicing social distancing. Keep reading to learn more! 

 

WHAT IS SOCIAL DISTANCING? 

Starting off, it’s important to understand what social distancing is. Social distancing is not a new term, but it’s a term that has been recently been brought to light and has been used very frequently over the past few weeks. The term social distancing has been used to describe the way that people are trying to control the spread of this infectious virus. Most recently, it’s been referenced by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, as one of the most effective and best ways in preventing the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). It’s so effective that various states have had mandated stay-at-home orders, where there are legal repercussions if you break the social distancing recommendations. 

 

While the state of Florida currently has not addressed or mandated a state stay-at-home order, it’s still extremely important to practice social distancing. With larger states like New York City and California shutting down, a state wide shutdown may also be anticipated for Florida. Make sure to check up on your local and state governments to stay informed. 

 

The CDC has defined social distancing as “remaining out of congregate settings, avoiding mass gatherings, and maintaining distance (about six feet) away from others when possible.” People have also been using the term “quarantine” or “social isolation,” which are essentially relating back to the same thing.

 

HOW CAN I STAY HEALTHY DURING THIS TIME? 

Due to the heavily-focused discussion surrounding the current pandemic and virus spread, it can be difficult to find a silver lining in all of this. Questions like, “How can I stay healthy or continue to live a healthy lifestyle with gym closures and limited stock of food?” may be surfacing your mind. Remember, it’s okay to feel like this. With all of the unknown and uncertainty about how long the world will remain like this, it can cause some feelings of anxiety. However, it’s important to remember that this is only temporary, and there are plenty of things that you can do to keep your body and mind healthy. 

 

GET OUTSIDE AND WALK AROUND

Florida is blessed with having warm weather and sunshine most of the year, so get outside and enjoy the outdoors! Even doing something as simple as taking a walk around your neighborhood is a wonderful way to get your blood moving, distract yourself, and still practice social distancing. Walking does more for your body than we tend to give it credit for. It helps engage the muscles of your legs and helps tighten your abdominal muscles. It may not be as “intense” as other forms of exercise but that still doesn’t mean that you can’t get a good workout in. Start your morning off this way or take a walk during your lunch break and enjoy the beautiful Florida scenery. Take a walk to your favorite local coffee shop, and get your favorite latte to go! 

 

EAT HEALTHY AND WHOLE FOODS 

It can be tempting to want to stock your pantry with non-perishable items and easy to make food, but it’s not the most nutritious option. Of course, get your fill of your favorite boxed mac n’ cheese, but try to not make it an everyday meal. Most of the grocery stores have been rummaged through, and many of the boxed and packaged items have been bought out, but there is always plenty of produce left. Yes, this may not last as long, but buying fresh foods is a sure way to make sure that your body is gaining the nutrients it needs. Supplying your home with fresh fruits and vegetables, along with forms of whole protein like chicken, turkey, and fish, will help keep your body feeling strong. 

 

TAKE A MULTIVITAMIN

Due to the increased number of indoor activities and limited food options, our bodies are probably not getting all of the nutrients and vitamins that they may be used to. Taking a multivitamin everyday can help make sure that you’re giving yourself enough energy and help your body get the proper nutrients it needs to function properly. You can easily pick up an affordable option online or at your local grocery store. 

 

KEEP YOUR EXERCISE ROUTINE

When exercise facilities begin to close, this can cause many people to panic over how they would still be able to maintain their fitness levels. Instead of stressing, understand that you can still exercise from the comfort of your own home and get an equal amount of exercise in that you would at any type of gym or studio. It may be a bit different, but it still counts! Depending on where and what your favorite type of exercise was, do some research online. Many fitness centers are offering complimentary online classes, live-streams, and other forms of broadcasting of their fitness classes. Body weight workouts can also be equally as productive. Order a pair of light dumbbells and resistance bands and use those. You may be surprised at how sore you can get from your at-home workouts. You can even take these exercises outside. Grab your yoga matt, and go out on your porch and get your sweat on. 

 

SUPPORT YOUR MENTAL HEALTH

Physical health is important, but your mental health is equally as important too. Remember to be kind to everyone and help people out when you can (still maintaining a safe distance). Make sure to check up on your family and loved ones. A video chat or phone call can go a long way. As we mentioned earlier, remember that this is temporary, and while it may not be optimal, it’s what we have to do. Take some time to be thankful for what you have, donate what you can, and support yourself through this time. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed, remember that there are options and tools to use. Telemedicine has been  very effective, and many therapists are seeing patients online. Don’t be afraid to reach out. We’re going through this time together. 

 

WHAT ARE WE DOING?

AFM Healthcare is following closely to the CDC’s recommendations that are pertaining to the coronavirus and will be posting updates about our Oviedo and Winter Park locations throughout all of our accounts. This includes social media, too. If you’re having symptoms of coronavirus, please call our office before coming in. We can set up televisit appointments. We do urge you, if you’re feeling sick with any of the symptoms, to avoid going to public offices like emergency rooms or urgent care clinics.  For more information about what we’re doing or questions about what to do if you’re feeling symptoms, connect with us today! We’re here for you.

 

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