Droves of people across the globe are “self-quarantining” and “socially distancing” themselves from others in an effort to contain the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus). It is being reported that the virus has infected more than 343,000 people globally and leading health experts from allover are recommending people practice “social distancing” and abide by a very high and strict standard of hygiene. With all the information that is shared via the news and the internet, combined with the fact that everyone is staying home, it’s understandable people to go a little stir crazy as a result.
Dr. Munir Somji, aka Dr. MediSpa, has shared some tips and tricks to help everyone not only stay happy and healthy but also sane. He recommends everything from reduced screen time to making sure that you get in a realistic fitness routine to help keep our minds sharp. Scroll through the below suggestions to see how you can make the most out of your #QuarantineLife phase.
Eat more superfoods and spices
"Try to consume lots of fresh fruit and vegetables, as eating a nutritious, balanced diet is vital in supporting your immune system," he shared.
It’s good to have a balanced diet that includes different elements like spices (think cinnamon and cayenne pepper), citrus (like mandarins and lemons) and other foods that help build up the immune system.
Why are spices and superfoods good for you
Spices are great because they help the body reduce bacteria, while citrus pumps the body with Vitamin C. Another great food to incorporate in raw garlic as it has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help with fighting off illness and speeding up the body’s recovery time.
Increase your water intake
"Ensure you are drinking an adequate amount of water, as many of our metabolic functions rely on hydration," Dr. Somji added.
He continued, “In addition, it can have an effect on the mucus layer in your respiratory tract and your digestive tract, that has antibodies that trap germs to prevent them from getting to your cells."
Give your water some love
Add a special kick to your water by adding fruits like lemon, orange, fresh ginger or cucumber to a great flavor to your water. Also good to note that you should track your consumption over the course of the day so that you can ensure your body is properly hydrated.
Don’t forget to exercise
Be honest about what you can do and are willing to do. Rather than setting a one hour workout, do 20-minutes of HIIT (aka High Intensity Interval Training) or go for a evening stroll after dinner while you practice your “social distancing.”
Set yourself realistic goals, such as exercising for just 20 minutes daily. If possible, attempt to get some much-needed fresh air to help you get out of the house and be one with nature.
"Light to moderate exercise can improve your mental and physical wellbeing. It can also support your immune cells to fight off germs and improve blood circulation," he advised.
Pick up a book or meditate
Take some time to chill without Netflix. Find other ways to stay away from a screen, like catching up on your favorite novel series or meditation.
Other great activities include: board games, painting, puzzles and organizing your sock drawer (too many lonely socks in this world).
Cut out technology (before sleep, that is)
A great way to reduce stress and anxiety is to cut all electronics an hour before going to bed. This helps your body begin the process of producing melatonin (the sleep hormone).
Take your supplements
Dr. Somji recommends incorporating vitamin supplements into your diet. The extra boost from the supplements can help weak or compromised systems get stronger.
"(Look to take) vitamin C, vitamin B12 complex, zinc, and essential amino acids - all of which play an essential role in the immune system functioning well," he stated.
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