An active life while social distancing

Being active isn’t just good for the heart

Uncertainty is a common feeling these days as we navigate something as foreign as a global pandemic. It is important to try and find comfort and normalcy in the unknown. Our mood is likely being affected by having to self-isolate from family and loved ones. We have an excess of free time that we’ve never had before. As a result, it would be healthy to make room for activity each day. According to Harvard Health Publishing[1], you should “exercise to relax.” Exercise reduces levels of stress hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol, and stimulates the release of endorphins. Endorphins are chemicals in the brain that are natural painkillers and mood elevators; this is why exercise makes us feel better.

Active simply means activity

The best way to stay active is to avoid looking at activity as a chore. So, find activities you enjoy. Having a household member to join you is a great incentive to keep fit. Staying active doesn’t mean you have to sign up for a gym membership. You can simply go for a walk with a partner or your dog, go for a run, practice yoga, or even just choose to close your eyes and meditate. Every little bit contributes to your mental and physical well-being!

While it may be challenging to get started with exercise and stay motivated, you don’t have to get up every day at 5 a.m. and devote hours of your day to improving your health. According to the Harvard School of Public Health[2], most people only need 30 minutes of moderate exercise 5 days a week. In short, it's better to exercise, no matter the amount, than not at all.

Support your body

It is important to practice safe exercise to reduce the risk of injury. There are many resources online that make it easy to follow a qualified instructor demonstrating proper form. Always go at your own pace and take breaks as needed so you don’t overexert yourself.

You can also support your body by taking supplements. Omega-3s help to maintain overall good health and support cardiovascular health – a double win!

As we age, it is important to maintain good bone density for overall health, while enjoying an active lifestyle, especially for women who may suffer from calcium loss as they get older. Lack of calcium contributes significantly to the development of osteoporosis. The good news is that we can get extra calcium through our diet, but if in doubt, it’s good to take supplements to make sure the body is getting what it needs. Combining a healthy diet with calcium and magnesium can help maintain healthy bones. Look for bone-friendly ingredients including collagen, manganese, boron, vitamin K2, and vitamin D3.

Activity and mental health

There is no doubt that exercise contributes to our physical health, but also to our mental health. One facet of our mental well-being, beyond mood, is self-esteem. Building endurance and strength, as well as mastering the activity you choose, builds confidence. And guess what? You'll take that confidence and discipline with you into any new activity and into all aspects of your life. So, incorporate moving your body into your daily routine. Physical activity is the ultimate strategy for the body and mind as a whole, for the best version of yourself. Be sure to consult your health care professional if exercising is new to you.

[1] “Exercising to Relax.” Harvard Health Publishing, Harvard Medical School, Feb.2011, https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/exercising-to-relax

[2] “Staying Active.” Harvard School of Public Health, Harvard T H Chan, 2018, https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/staying-active/