People all over the United States have been asked to stay home while the nation grapples with the coronavirus. At FemmePharma, our hearts are heavy as we start to realize the breadth of the infection and experience its devastating effects. The risks are something to be taken seriously, and there’s never been a better time to focus on your health and wellness.
While you’re at home in the weeks ahead, you have a true opportunity to improve and refine your wellness routine to hopefully emerge from this crisis even stronger than before. Here are a few ways to do so.
Your Skin
It’s best to avoid public places right now because of COVID-19, but when you do need to go out, wash your hands after returning home and as often as you can after touching anything outside your home or accepting packages. Using the chorus to “Happy Birthday” to measure 20 seconds can get a little boring. Try the refrain from one of these other songs to keep yourself entertained.
- “Love on Top,” by Beyoncé
- “Raspberry Beret,” by Prince
- “Africa,” by Toto
- “Jolene,” by Dolly Parton
- “Don’t Stop Believin’,” by Journey
Repeatedly washing your hands can leave them very dry. Commit to a moisturizer routine. Stock a pretty bin near the sink with your favorites for all your body parts.
Your Hair
There’s a meme going around that reads: “We’re about three weeks away from knowing everyone’s real hair color.” It’s funny because it’s true. Consider these options:
- Wide headbands and headscarves are in fashion. So are big-brimmed hats.
- Temporary color is good for those with a little gray, but the gray-hair trend is still going strong. There may never have been a better time to embrace yours.
- My hairdresser says cutting your own hair is a form of self-mutilation, and I believe her. Pull yours back in a ponytail and let it grow a few extra weeks.
Your Body & Mind
If you’re used to working out at a gym or in group exercise classes pre COVID-19, it may feel challenging — even depressing — to keep up with your exercise routine. But it’s critical that you do. Exercise is important for both physical and mental health.
Many local studios were quick to move classes online — we applaud their agility! — and national brands like CorePower and Peloton (no bike required) are offering free online classes for at least 90 days. Here are a few other fun ways to work out at home without buying a bunch of equipment.
- When you’re binge-watching shows with commercials, use those 30-, 60-, 90-second breaks to do squats, planks, and situps.
- Since you’re all stocked up on TP and paper towels, clear away the breakables and use your paper goods to play living room dodgeball with your spouse and kids. It will boost your heart rate and get everyone laughing.
- You’ve also stocked up on canned goods. Tie up two or three cans in a couple of plastic bags for a makeshift kettlebell. Here’s a terrific five-minute kettlebell workout that’s safe and effective even for beginners.
And, yes, it’s OK to take a walk outside.
Lastly, stress and anxiety can destroy your health. Social distancing and isolation can exacerbate the problem, as can social media. Avoid the latter as much as possible, and make sure that you’re connecting with the people you love via phone or video chat. If you’ve wanted to explore meditation, now is the time.
And remember to practice gratitude daily and realize that we’re all in this together.
Photos: Knape, Vgajic