Social distancing is the need of the hour due to the ongoing pandemic. It is of prime importance to stay indoors in the current scenario. During this “stay at home” period we cannot ignore our health. It is important to make a routine to ensure that we remain fit even when we remain indoors.
Eat Healthily – Do enjoy the homemade foods, but do not over-eat. A sedentary woman requires approximately 1800-2000 kcal and a sedentary male requires 2200-2400 kcal. So try to eat as per your body requirement. Avoid fatty foods that can adversely affect your digestion as well as the caused increase in cholesterol and lipids. Eat fruits and vegetables which are immunity boosters as well as provide good roughage. Keep well hydrated.
Exercise – Physical inactivity is detrimental to health so take out time to exercise. There are a variety of exercises which can be done at home. Aerobics, jumping, and Jogging can be done within a room. The elderly can do yoga and deep breathing exercises. Dancing is also a form of exercise which is enjoyable as well as relaxing.
Take care of mental health – Listening and talking about the pandemic all the time can increase anxiety. Watch relaxing programs, involve your selves in group activities like antakshri, board games, etc. Do not be glued to the screen (TV, Mobile/PC) all the time. It is especially important for children. Involve them in household chores, encourage painting, colouring and diary writing. Let the creativity come out and utilize this “stay at home “period to pursue your hobbies.
Reduce the risk of infections – Maintain good hygiene by frequent handwashing. Clean all the perishable grocery with water before storing. Keep storage cartons in sunlight outdoors for 8-12 hours.
Do not panic – If you have flu-like symptoms (suffering from cough and cold) cover your mouth and nose. There are many seasonal cough and colds which have similar symptoms. Enquire from the helpline number (011-23978046 for Delhi) whether any testing is required.
Dr. Kanika Sharma Sood, Senior Consultant – Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Dharamshila Narayana Superspeciality Hospital, Delhi
