Some tips from FFA for staying strong – mentally and physically – during uncertain times.
I know the new “C” word and its topic is what most of us talk about but I wanted to share some tips to hopefully help you to stay mentally and physically strong. We need, more than ever to be strong. The coming few months will be challenging. Remain sane, remain strong, stay healthy. Don’t let it get to you as it will make you feel run down, then you feel tired and somewhat weaker, resulting in a reduction in your immune system, metabolism and so you can fall ill more quickly. In essence the best we can do is to follow the advice from the World health Organisation (WHO) and guidelines from our Government, both reputable sources.
We can and should do are upmost best to aid and adhere to social distancing, to support our immune system, to reduce stress levels and focus on total well being.
Healthy ways to strengthen your immune system
Your first line of defence is to choose a healthy lifestyle. Following general good health guidelines is the single best step you can take toward naturally keeping your immune system strong and healthy. Every part of your body, including your immune system, functions better when protected from environmental assaults and bolstered by healthy-living strategies such as these:
• Don't smoke.
• Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables.
• Exercise regularly (but with caution at the moment). Go for a walk in the fresh air and soak up some sun which boosts your well being daily.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation.
• Get adequate sleep.
• Take steps to avoid infection, such as washing your hands frequently for 20 seconds, washing your cloths straight after exercise and so on.
• Try to minimise stress by reducing your individual triggers to stress. Perhaps watch only essential news and minimise social media activity.
Some of these points are going to be more challenging. We are all different with different priorities, values and things to work on. So what can you do besides the known advice available? Think initially about your own immediate health and safety priorities. Apply some self-care, get your own house in order which includes your surroundings - including your garden if you have one, your security, do what you think is needed to help your self and your loved ones to be safe, sound and focus on total well-being - especially during these times.
Some of us are more nervous and anxious than others, so analyse the things which makes one that way and reduce or address things where possible so you have done everything possible in your control which should provide better peace of mind. Again, prepare yourself by having everything sorted what you can possibly sort, yes, in detail. Help your loved ones with this, and please support, care, understand and love each other - a lot!
Some basic things to consider:
If you suspect your diet is not providing you with all your micro-nutrient needs — maybe, for instance, you don't like vegetables or certain foods are unavailable — taking daily multivitamin and mineral supplement for example may bring other health benefits, beyond the possible beneficial effects on the immune system.
You may also need to change the way you train, preferably within your own home or elsewhere with no contact and within the social distancing guidelines – more body weight training (no equipment needed, less chance of infection – maybe run, cycle or train in the open air while possible, train one on one in a relatively safe environment and maintaining correct distances.
How has FFA been adapting?
We have been up to this point taking extra precautions, but all things involved in normal good practice. At FFA we have been adoptg the social distancing and have in place: 1) good hygiene standards, 2 ) sanitisers, wipes, towels and sprays always on hand 3) great control on ventilation/airing, 4) breaks of 10 to 15 minutes between sessions to allow extra sanitation, 5) outdoor safe space to train, 6) physical and mental enhancement and encouragement, 7) effective, efficient and measured training methods, 8) training needs and wants tailored to you, 9) understanding and adapting to your health and fitness journey 10) some control on people’s health when entering and leaving and relevant knowledge available to enhance your health, fitness and total well being.
Sensible, and adaptable to ever changing situations, FFA is there to support you with your needs. Alternatively we can offer on-line for training, do skype or zoom sessions, join a suitable social media group or arrange virtual training sessions from your home. FFA is here for you to assist you in the best possible way given the circumstances. By being sensible, adaptable at all times and by trying not to travel too far unnecessarily.
By limiting the risk in every way possible but we need oxygen to breathe. The best advice I can give is to stay fit - physically & mentally, stay hydrated, stay alert and be adaptable. Try to be one step ahead of what is likely to happen next in these times, it is likely to be there for 5 more months and the social distancing for a year. Try to live your life as much as you would do normally, have routine for all in your house, vent your feelings and energy, support and love each other, Stay strong, train your mind, have vitamin C top ups daily, eat plenty of fruit and vegetables, drink (sip) lots of water and sleep lots, do what is needed to assist your immune system and stay safe, strong and fit. Look after yourself and each other.
Feel free to contact me for any support, in whatever shape or form.
Best wishes and be(come) Fit For Anything Roel