By Carolyn De La Cruz
As new cases and deaths due to COVID-19 continue to increase in the United States, anxiety and stress are also affecting people’s mental and physical health. According to Jeremy Engle from The New York Times, “Russell G. Buhr, a pulmonologist at U.C.L.A Health. Maintaining a routine, he said, like getting up and getting dressed and doing what you usually do, can positively affect mental health. And good mental health promotes a good physical healthâ€.
According to Engle, some practical suggestions to maintain good physical and mental health are, start bringing movement into tiny moments. “Next time you watch a TV show, get up and do some squats during commercials. Turn on some music and boogieâ€.
In his article he suggests getting your heart rate up, multiple times a day. “If you have access to stairs in your home or apartment, going up and down those stairs is a great way to get your blood pumping†says Engle.
Social media and watching the news can have a big impact on a person’s physical and mental health, causing fear and strong emotions in children and adults. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises to “Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsettingâ€. Stating to take care of your body “Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals. Exercise regularly and get plenty of sleepâ€.
Many people want to stay healthy during the pandemic and some find it really difficult to stay physically active. According to Dr. Buhr, “As long as the public health practitioners haven’t suggested a total lockdown, as long as you’re able to maintain a reasonable amount of distance and you’re being good about hand hygiene and especially if you’re staying completely home if you’re have sign of illness, then getting outside for a walk is good†Dr. Buhr said. “It clears your mind, and it keeps you activeâ€.