I think we can all agree it’s been a particularly rough 18+ months since the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world. It’s safe to say that we’ve all been affected in some way, whether it be through changes to work, finances, isolation, having to home-school the kids, or worst of all, losing a loved one. The team here at Body@Boronia wanted to take this opportunity to check in, say a big hello, and send best wishes to each and every one of you who are taking the time to read this message.
We know that lockdowns and isolation come with their fair share of baggage, and people respond to them in different ways. Some people become depressed and anxious at the prospect of not being with their loved ones. Others may enjoy the slowing down of life that a lockdown may bring. Either way, it can easily take its toll on you, whether that be quick, or progressively over a long period of time. Whether you are reading this having recently come out of (or gone into) a lockdown or period of isolation, it’s good to take a step back and have a long and hard think about how you may have been (or are still being) affected by it all.
You may think of us as the people you go to when you have a sore back or neck, and whilst that may be true, we are able to offer so much more than just hands-on and movement therapy. It’s a well-known fact that to be 100% healthy, you need to be physically and mentally well, and have a solid, social environment around you that offers you support.
To try and battle some of the negative effects that may have come about over this pandemic, this little check-in from us is designed to give some prompts about some aspects of life that may have fallen (or are continuing to fall) by the wayside as a result of lockdown. You can take as little or as much as you want from it, but even if you take just one point and act on it, it could make a huge difference to your life.
Do You Need Psychological Support?
We’re going right into the deep end with this. Rates of depression and anxiety have increased dramatically during the pandemic, especially in adolescents and young adults. Are you feeling low? Alone? Have you asked your kids if they are OK? You or a family member may need some psychological support. Don’t ignore these feelings. Go straight to your doctor or a local psychologist or counsellor and get the help you deserve, today. We mean it, make this a priority.
Are You Being Kind To Your Body?
Nutritionally and physically? Diet and exercise are a key part to leading a fulfilling and healthy life. Lockdowns and increasing rates of mental health problems can open doorways to bingeing on fast foods that are extremely comforting, yet incredibly full of unhealthy fats and sugars. Put your foot on the brake and steer yourself away from diabetes and heart disease by cramming your diet full of nutrient-rich plant-based foods including fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds. We’re not saying don’t eat meat, we’re just saying keep it fresh and clean and predominantly… plant-based.
Bingeing on fast foods is one thing, bingeing on TV shows and movies is a growing problem. We love a good show as much as the next person, but as the saying goes… all in moderation. Days on end in front of the flat-screen watching season after season of your favourite period drama may seem appealing, but your body will be crying out for movement. Noticed some pains and pangs creeping in? Feeling sluggish? Get yourself out, in the garden if necessary, and get moving. Squats, lunges, step-ups, jumping-jacks, jogging on the spot and many other exercises can all be performed in a space of about 2-3 square metres! You’ll feel great for it, we promise you that.
Lastly… have you been smashing the tea, coffee and alcohol? Remember, our bodies are 60-70% water. We need to feed our bodies water because we are unable to create it ourselves. Whilst we get some water from the food and drinks we consume, we need to ensure the majority of liquid we consume each day is fresh water. Our tip is to have a reusable water bottle with you each day, sip regularly each hour and re-fill as required. Don’t let yourself get thirsty. If you are thirsty, your body is letting you know you are dehydrated.
Are You Allowing Yourself To Relax Each Day?
There are no rules for this, but we all need to wind down each day. Home-schooling the kids or back-to-back household chores is tiring and demanding on the body. What gets you into your chill-zone? Maybe some calming music, a walk along the beach, a puzzle, reading a fantasy novel, building Lego or colouring in? Whatever brings down the stress levels for you, always ensure you allow yourself to do it, each day. It’s easy to put it off until tomorrow, but don’t, you need it.
You may be thinking you have read all of this before, and you probably have. But are you following this advice? It’s well-known information, but many people do not follow this advice. Be different. Be healthy. Be the best version of yourself. And you’ll be truly happy and healthy. Stay strong out there, and as always, be safe.
P.S. If you do have a sore back or neck, please get in touch today with our Melbourne-based team of osteopaths, call us today on 03 9762 9445 or click here to send an enquiry via this website.
