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I think it is safe to say that that staying healthy has been on the top of everyone’s minds right now. With COVID-19 still impacting every area of our lives, we are all trying to do our best to take care of ourselves but it can be hard to focus on what we should be doing for our bodies. That is why I am glad to have life enhancement coach Nancy Smith back on The Stress Less Show this week to share her tips for staying healthy during this pandemic.
After a career in psychiatric health, Nancy transitioned into health and life coaching as she realized how important physical health was to her. An active child, staying healthy and active has been a part of her life every step of the way even now years later.
“As an adult, staying active helps confidence, collaboration, plus all the other physical benefits that physical activity and movement has.”
Through her coaching, she uses that passion to help as many people as she can to connect to their bodies and minds for a healthy and vibrant lifestyle. Now, she is sharing her passion with us by discussing the importance of keeping up with healthy habits so that we are feeling our best right now.
The Importance of movement
Even though gyms are closed and many of us are staying inside more, we do still need to make sure we are moving our bodies. Humans were designed to be active! Physical activity is a crucial part of staying healthy and supporting our immune system. Not only can you gain physical health benefits from physical activity, but it also allows us to clear our mind and release some of the nervous energy we may have during this uncertain time.
“Being able to focus that energy on something purposeful, meaningful, productive. It just helps reduce and put that energy somewhere else and [then] you're feeling better.”
Whether you do some gentle yoga or take a walk around your neighborhood for a few minutes a day, anything you can do to get your blood flowing will help you both in your body and your mind.
Supporting our immune system
Another crucial part of supporting our immune system during this time of covid-19 is making sure we’re eating the right foods. While it is tempting to pick up all our favorite comfort foods at the grocery store as we try to cope with the stress and trauma we are all going through, Nancy stresses that we need to make sure we're still prioritizing healthier foods in our diet.
“This is a time where we should be eating more of this fresh produce and vegetables, and our fruits. Because, again, those provide us good energy after you eat.”
Healthy foods and fresh produce give our body the proper nutrients it needs to function at its best. It is even shown that certain foods help promote positive feelings within us. By making these subtle but powerful changes in our day-to-day we can start putting ourselves in the healthiest place we can be so that we are doing our part to stay healthy and safe during this time.
“Remember, we're all in this together, so stay positive and remind yourself of your strengths and abilities.”
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Have you heard? Self-love accountability has gotten a whole lot easier! We’ve launched The Virtual Stress Less Space, a brand new virtual self-care accountability group to help you relax and recharge in the comfort of your own home! Learn more here and join us for our next session on July 29th at 8pm ET!