In the midst of all the stress we may be feeling due to the restrictions that we are taking upon ourselves now and going forward, what can we do for ourselves and our families to feel a sense of control over our circumstances and to enhance our health?
We are now familiar with the critical importance of maintaining good hygiene, including:
- washing our hands with soap and water for 20 seconds
- maintaining social distancing of at least 3 feet between anyone who is coughing or sneezing
- working from home if possible
- avoiding shaking hands
- sanitizing frequently used surfaces with disinfectant
- covering our mouth and nose when we sneeze or cough with a tissue or into a bent elbow
- staying home to isolate if we have a fever, cough or flu-like symptoms
- calling ahead for medical help if one experiences breathing difficulties
What Else Can We Do To Strengthen Our Immune Systems and To Stay Positive?
This afternoon, I took a stroll to the local park with my girls. The feeling of the warm sun on my face felt very healing. The sound of the birds was lovely and it felt good to get some exercise. I took the opportunity to do some deep breathing and as I did, my mind reminded me that “This Too Shall Pass”.
Psychological Well-Being:
Psychological Well-Being goes a long way in helping us to strengthen our immune systems. We have a golden opportunity now to use our time to grow and work on ourselves-to reflect on what aspects of our personalities we would like to improve on and to reassess our goals and priorities in life. Some aspects of Psychological Well-Being include;
- Autonomy – Having confidence in our opinions, which grows as we learn more and become curious. Choosing Thoughts that build our self-esteem and trust in G-d or whatever higher power a person believes in.
- Environmental Mastery – Feeling Responsible for Ourselves & Others, having a sense of control of our circumstances and Acceptance those things which are not within our control. Having Faith & Trust that nothing in this world happens without a greater purpose.
- Personal Growth – The Feeling that I want to grow, to be open to new ideas and improve oneself.
- Positive Relationships Towards Others – Asking ourselves how can I give to others who are in need, how can I be of service and part of the solution, rather than part of the problem and praying for others.
- Purpose in Life – Having Clarity about what direction we would like our lives to go in and having goals.
- Self-Acceptance – Knowing that we are exactly how G-d intended us to be, accepting ourselves, learning how to optimize our strengths and minimize our weaknesses. Knowing what makes you unique (and there is not a single person who woke up this morning who is not unique and who does not have an important reason to be in this world).
Physical Things We Can Do to Strengthen Ourselves & Families:
- Fresh Air – Go out for an hour Walk Each Day – while still maintaining social distancing
- Change Air Filters in your Furnace
- Sun on your face each day for at least 30 minutes if possible
- Deep Breathing, Meditation & Prayer throughout the day-Connecting to G-d or whatever higher power you believe in
- List 5 things you are Grateful for every day
- Connect with friends, family & neighbors throughout the day through technology
- Get some daily Exercise, Stretch and Yoga and the like
- Drink enough Water to stay hydrated
- Get enough Sleep each night
- Take enough Vitamin D and Vitamin C
- Eat Plenty of Fruits & Vegetables each day, Seeds & Nuts and Avoid Overeating due to Stress and Inactivity
- Take a Multivitamin and Minerals, Fish Oils etc. if you do not like or cannot eat enough fruits and vegetables
- Laugh at Jokes & Make People Laugh if you are good at it
- Sing
- Play or Listen to Relaxing Music
- Do Hobbies that you normally cannot
- Do Nasal Irrigation each day e.g. with a Neti Pot
- Shower Each Day
- Maintain a Routine and Use Your Time Wisely
Remember…….This Too Shall Pass!! We Will Get Through This Together…Even If We Are Not Certain How At This Moment!