3 Ways to Stay Emotionally Healthy During COVID
At NY Foot Health, we share the same concerns about the coronavirus pandemic that all New Yorkers have. Although social isolating has been very helpful in flattening the curve, it can be extremely difficult, especially if you live alone. Below are 3 suggestions for staying emotionally healthy until we can all get together again, which will hopefully be sooner rather than later.
Stay Connected—many of us have resorted to Facebook and emails to stay in touch with friends and families during busy periods, but now, with less to do and more hours alone, it’s time to pick up the phone and have a real, live conversation. Better yet, use Zoom, What’s App, or Facetime to see and hear those you love. It is truly the next best thing to being there.
Be Active—it’s all too easy to start to become one with your home office desk chair or couch without a routine or your regular exercise outlets. Start a new fitness program and schedule set times for taking walks or doing a home workout. Many patients who were going out for physical therapy can no longer do so. If you are one of them, be sure to be diligent about doing any exercises prescribed for you at home. If you notice you are experiencing foot or ankle discomfort while working out, contact your podiatrist. Don’t have one? Use the online directory to find a foot doctor in your community. Many are currently offering telemedicine appointments.
Control Incoming Information—spending hours glued to the news is likely to produce anxiety, sadness, or anger. Try to find some objective news sources and limit the amount of time you spend reading, or watching. Instead, look for podcasts, movies or online resources that have positive messages. Consider learning a new skill with the help of the internet. Connect with others who enjoy similar pastimes.
Taking care of your emotional health will help you keep a positive perspective. We hope everyone is staying safe and healthy.
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