Staying Healthy and Staying Happy
Amid the coronavirus outbreak (and flu season), here are some quick tips and precautionary measures to keep in mind! Practicing proper hygiene and cleaning methods can help prevent the spread of germs and ensure your health and happiness.
Wash your hands!
The CDC recommends washing your hands with soap and running water for at least 20 seconds. “Washing your hands is easy, and it’s one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. Clean hands can stop germs from spreading from one person to another and throughout an entire community—from your home and workplace to childcare facilities and hospitals,” the website says. If you’re tired of singing happy birthday, you can find tons of lists with fun 20-second chorus songs to sing along to!
Practice social distancing
Another precautionary measure the CDC and the White House considers essential, social distancing is one of the most surefire ways to halt the spread of germs. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, “Social distancing is deliberately increasing the physical space between people to avoid spreading illness. Staying at least six feet away from other people lessens your chances of catching COVID-19.” Basically, limiting your physical interaction with others will help you limit any spread of germs. If you find yourself worried about not seeing friends or family as often, set up a group FaceTime or Google Hangouts session for an easy and distanced alternative to socializing!
Eat Clean
Being cooped up inside all day can produce a negative effect on your mood if you’re not careful. Eating healthy, balanced meals can help keep you feeling energized and refreshed, even if you have been sitting around in your pajamas all day. Loosely planning your meals for the day can also help keep you on a healthy track and give you something to look forward to. Play around with new combinations and try out all the recipes you’ve always wanted to make, but never got around to. Let your kitchen creativity loose!
Disinfect!
Be sure to constantly disinfect and clean not only your hands, but your home and all the things you touch or use most. Disinfectant and antibacterial products work best for killing unwanted germs. Some high-priority areas inside your home may include: fridge, cabinet and door handles, kitchen countertops, light switches, and things such as remote controls, keyboards and cellphones.
Make to-do lists
Getting nothing productive done all day is very easy. Beat the working-from-home slump by making to-do lists and set small goals for yourself throughout the day! Instead of agonizing over all you need to get done in a day, use a list to help you stay on track and give a soft outline to your day. You don’t need to follow it exactly, but make sure you hit those major accomplishments throughout the day – and don’t forget to reward yourself with a treat (or warm bowl of aha Pure Foods soup) to keep the motivation up!
Note: If you do feel sick and are showing symptoms of COVID-19, stay home, limit close-contact, physical interactions and consult a health care provider for further instruction.