The Coronavirus has arrived and it has turned life as we know it upside down. Although this is such a terrible, scary time for us all, there’s no need to live in despair. Here are 10 things you should be doing right now to improve your Coronavirus experience:
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One: Stay off social media
Unfortunately, as a blogger, I don’t have this option. But I have been reducing my time on my phone. Scrolling through images of women so perfectly working out, or those squeezing fat rolls, is not what we need to see. If I read “soon we’ll know everyone’s true hair color” one more time I’m going to scream! I’m almost 69 and I really want to see ME when I look in the mirror – please don’t mock me.
Two: Tune out
Stop following the news. I’m admittedly a news junkie and have the TV on as background noise when I work, but even I have tuned out. I’ve been watching funny movies and lots of cooking and home design shows. Laugh. Enjoy. It’s important to smile. Spending all day listening to stories about the Coronavirus is not wise.
Three: Lighten Up
This is may not be the time to adhere to your fitness lifestyle 100%. I’m not. I’m not happy about it but I’m doing my best – I’m sure you are too. I’m a dedicated gym rat and love to lift heavy weights but I can’t do that now. And it’s not because I’m lazy – it’s that I cannot! But I’m walking almost every day and I’m working out to my videos and I’m doing my best. So are you. This is the time to be your own best friend! But you do need to move. There are lots of great workouts and workout videos on my blog.
Four: If you need a drink, have it
I’m not much of a drinker – I never had much tolerance. And as a former fat kid I don’t like empty calories. I admit I’ve had a few since isolating but now that the shock is gone, I’ve tapered off. Bottom line: if you need that vodka or glass of wine have it – but don’t make it your new normal.
Five: Modify to Eat Healthy
At the moment our houses may not be stocked as we would like. Additionally, with most of us working from home, meals have become a little more fluid. Fresh vegetables, especially salads, are a mainstay of my daily diet. Unfortunately, fresh produce is not easily obtainable so I’ve turned to frozen vegetables. To replace the fiber I would normally get from fresh vegetables, I choose fiber rich bean pastas. So many great ones to choose from! I love Banza rotini the most! Try making my fabulous Spaghetti and Meatballs! Better than take-in (and I’m limiting that now)
Since the Coronavirus outbreak changed my daily routine, I now transition from one thing to another, not concentrating on a strict schedule. I still primarily stick to timed fasting, but I’m doing much more grazing as snacks are more readily available. The trick is to find individual sized nutritious treats and there are plenty here!
Six: Meditate
Anytime you feel like you need to let go of anything that does not serve you well just meditate. You can do it anytime. Try it! Sit or lay down in a comfortable position and allow your body to let go of stress and strain. Giving up control is such a hard thing to do. But especially now, with so many things beyond our control it can be a liberating experience, not easy to do, but definitely worth trying. If you need help getting into meditation mode, try a guided meditation video on your phone or computer.
Seven: Get Creative
Learn to bake, sew, crochet, doodle, paint, scrapbook, make jewelry, photography and so much more! The possibilities are endless. You finally have the time to do something that you’ve never been able to pursue. Research shows that participating in an easy creative activity can increase happiness and make one feel more enthusiastic about their plans for the next day. So why not give it a try?
Eight: Reach Out to Friends & Family
One of the best ways to get through challenging times like these is by reaching out to your loved ones. This doesn’t have to be social distancing, just physical distancing. Stay connected! Virtual applications are available! Use zoom or Face Time to visit your friends and family. Or just pick up the phone and call someone that you care about. It’s more important than ever to stay socially connected. Reach out now — your friends and family need you just as much as you need them.
Nine: Pamper Yourself
During all this craziness we need to relax and stay calm. This is the perfect opportunity for us to take some time for ourselves. It’s time to step up your pamper game! Now you have the time to really concentrate on your beauty routines and/or start new ones. It is always important to look after yourself, especially during stressful and challenging times, so dig up all those beauty goodies and create your very own home spa. Need a suggestions? My post Must Do’s for Middle-Aged Skin has a fabulous skin routine!
Ten: Take Vitamins & Stay Hydrated
Take this time to nurture your body, mind and soul. Please don’t neglect your own health. This is truly our best defense during these uncertain times. Protect yourself from the Coronavirus by taking Vitamins B, C, D and zinc. These vitamins, along with a healthy diet, will help to keep your immune system strong. As always, make sure to check with your doctor before taking any vitamins or supplements. Also, drink lots of water! Water carries nutrients and oxygen to your cells. Hydration is key in helping fight off sicknesses. Staying safe + healthy is super important right now!
What should be your take-away?
The Coronavirus is here. We can’t just wish it away. Now more than ever taking care of you should be at the top of your list! Rest, relax, move, and eat well.
Stay calm.
Stay safe.
Be smart.
Keep smiling 
TO ALL MY FOLLOWERS 
We are all going through difficult times but this too will come to an end. Please know if you should need my help I am here for you. Email me if I can help with any health or fitness questions, or if you just need a friendly ear. The Coronavirus is scary. If you’re feeling very blue and can’t seem to shake it off, my post Four Sure Ways to Transform a Negative Mindset is a must read!
