Look out for yourself, bro.
Chances are, we’re going to look back on 2020 and think about all this madness. It was supposed to be the year everyone accomplished all their goals—seriously, how many, “this is my year” posts did you see?
Now, insert the new norm. Social Distancing, which is sometimes fueled by some not so good for you moments.
Look familiar?
That said, the coronavirus has put a lot of people’s goals and dreams on hold, but that doesn’t mean that social distancing is all bad.
There are ways to make the most out of your time at home and get on track for a healthy lifestyle. To get started, here are some common unhealthy habits to avoid while social distancing.
Check them out, below!
1. Not Engaging with Others
Social distancing does mean that you shouldn’t go over to your buddy’s and hang out.
However, it doesn’t mean that you can’t reach out and continue communicating with friends, family, and co-workers. It’s highly beneficial to stay in touch virtually with those you normally converse with.
When you totally cut yourself off, your mental health will suffer—reach out regularly.
2. Drinking Too Much
Drinking too much is never a good thing, as alcohol affects your body in a myriad of ways. When you’re isolated, you may feel the urge to drink to pass the time—lots of people are feeling that way.
In fact, most of the time, we’d shamelessly plug our Drinks section where you can read up on various drink how-to’s and learn about the latest drink innovations.
Today, we’re wanting to look out for you man, so if you know that you have a problem with drinking or you notice that you’re drinking too much, try to stop.
There’s no shame, bud.
Reach out to friends and family, hop on an AA virtual meeting, or try to pass the time in productive and healthy ways.
3. Emotional Eating
Everyone is coping with this pandemic in different ways. Some are sleeping more, drinking more, or eating more.
While this is okay in moderation, it’s better to limit these things to your normal amount—setting a regular sleeping schedule, a drink limit, and choosing to eat healthy foods when you’re emotional are a good start.
Comfort food now and then is fine, but if you’re noticing that you’re choosing the greasy cheeseburger and fries every time you’re overwhelmed, then you may want to make some changes.
4. Not Getting Fresh Air
Another unhealthy habit that you need to try to kick is not getting daily fresh air.
Daily movement may seem hard right now, and if that’s the case, then in the very least, step out on the porch and breathe in the clean air.
Your body needs sunshine and a fresh breeze, and if you’re not getting outside enough, you’ll notice that your mood will stay low. Even 10 minutes of fresh air twice a day can make a difference.
5. Too Much Screen Time
If you’re working from home, then your screen time is already looking different than it did before all of this.
You may not give yourself as many breaks or limit yourself to the eight-hour day. You may also notice that after work you head to the TV or stick to your phone screen way more than you did before.
This makes sense to a point, but if you notice that you’re getting headaches or feeling overwhelmed by all the social media and news, then put a limit on your screen time.
Looking for ways to stay active while self-quarantining?
Being forced to stay home can take it’s toll even for introverts.
Sure, you just walk around your home to get in a few steps, but our bodies are meant to move.
Here’s the thing: we all need shake things up a bit.
You can only do so much at home cardio or yoga for so long before you get bored and give it up all together.
Be sure to check out our recent article, “4 Tips for Staying Active While Social Distancing” here.
We cover some easy ways to keep things new and invigorating as we all try to navigate this weird time.
Stay safe & healthy.
-The Team at MAN’edged Magazine