Staying Active

I was out for a walk with my husband and kids the other night when we walked past a driveway filled with sidewalk chalk and the saying “Life is like riding a bicycle, to keep your balance you must keep moving.” Although everyone should be practicing social distancing at this time it is still important for physical and mental health to stay active.

Although the options may be limited compared to times prior to social distancing there are still many options to choose from.

With the weather changing and becoming warmer, walking or biking around your neighbourhood or along many of the walking paths around town is a great option as long as you keep a distance of at least approximately 2 meters from anyone around.

On days when the weather doesn’t cooperate and you are forced indoors, there are many online yoga and exercise classes that you may be able to join. Prior to beginning any class make sure you have been cleared by a medical professional to exercise and pick a class that matches your fitness level. Another fitness activity you may complete if you love the stair master at the gym is walking or running up/down the stairs in your home (if you have any).

If you are lucky enough to be able to still work from home, if your business has closed its doors, try to stand up and move approximately every 30 minutes. My husband is able to work from home, but rather than being able to walk to and from his desk for meetings or to have consultations with different coworkers he is completing those tasks from the same chair in his home office. I educated him to get up and move as much as he can as his sedentary job has become even more sedentary.

If you have been able to continue to be active during these tough times make sure you continue to stay hydrated. Also, if you have been able to stay active but are still struggling with stress and anxiety try some meditation to help with mental health. Taking repetitive deep breaths may also help with relaxation.

Please try to stay healthy during this time but at the same time keep moving to stay balanced.

Nicole Weishar MScPT

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