Lockdown is now the new normal. Family, work, health, education, and other support networks are facing a strain because of the lockdown. We are all learning to stay safe, and the sudden change in routine can be overwhelming. Our routines have been thrown into disarray, and according to experts, the future is still far from certain.
There is no doubt that this period is having a big impact on family relationships. Many people are at home with babies, toddlers, children, and teenagers; where you have to balance working from home and caring for your kids.
Before we can return to any form of normality, we have to make do with what we have now. To ease the burden, here are the top five things you can do to keep you and your family healthy aside from self-isolation and social distancing.
1. Eat Healthily
Without a vaccine, we can’t eliminate the risk of contracting Coronavirus. We need to boost our immune system, and eating healthy is not only important for everyone but also necessary for the psychological health of everyone in the family.
You don’t need to follow a particular diet, just stay away from processed foods. They are not good for anyone, especially children. Eat fruits, vegetables, and whole grains because they provide nourishment for our brain, body, and releases energy that stabilizes our mood.
In fact, this lockdown is an opportunity to cook more for the family. For those that keep asking how long does weed stay in the system, try out new food tips with your family instead. Hone your baking skills. Cooking gives everyone a sense of achievement and helps you to feel more energetic. Cooking time can also be a family bonding time.
2. Plan Regular Exercise
Regular exercise releases chemicals in the body that make you feel good. It improves sleep, reduces stress, and aids body cognition. Playing with your kids is one of the most fun ways of exercise for the whole family. Young people will definitely miss their friends because they are wired to seek creativity and connection.
Encourage your children to play and be active together. This will help them cope with stress and anxiety and learn how to maintain some independence from you. You don’t have to be a fitness junkie before you can exercise at home with your family.
Keep your kids interested by making it competitive. You may not be able to go running together depending on specific restrictions around where you stay. However, you can still measure performance as your kids compete with each other. Use fitness apps. Be creative and have rewards to make it more interesting. For example, whoever finishes last will wash plates or clean the bathroom.
Photo by Isabella and Louisa Fischer on Unsplash
3. Sleep Matters
Getting enough and quality sleep is important for everyone. It repairs cells, clean toxins, and improves emotional well-being. Due to the lockdown, if there is no structure, staying up late to watch movies can cause sleep deprivation. This is not good for kids, even adults too. It increases the risk of developing serious health conditions like obesity and diabetes.
Just like having a schedule for eating, exercising, and working, you need to sustain a regular sleep routine at home. Six to nine hours every night is sufficient for each member of your family. Make sure your kids go to bed early too.
4. Social Connections
Health also includes a state of mental well-being and not just physical well-being. Don’t shy away from social connections. Relationships are more important than ever during this period, and it plays a significant role in buffering stress within the family.
Redirect your family conversations from the pandemic. Relate with friends and support systems that make you feel good and bond with your kids. Your family might drive you mad but try to embrace this moment together. It is a perfect opportunity to know more about each other and build a stronger relationship.
Social interaction with other families does not have to be face-to-face before it can be fun and meaningful. You can organize a virtual dinner party through apps like zoom, Google Hangout, House party, or take a virtual walk. You can even do a housebound activity with them.
5. Limit the Use of Digital Devices
Due to social distancing, we have all turned toward technology. We all use social media to stay in touch with friends, relatives, and colleagues. Spending more time with your kids will allow you to monitor their time on digital devices and the kind of content they consume from the media.
Enlighten them about the use of technology. Teach them how to read books and try out activities like sewing, crafting, and gardening.
Conclusion
This is a challenging time for everyone around the world. While we need to improve our physical and mental health, this is also a great chance for personal growth. Whether you are learning new things about your spouse and children or interacting with people, there is a lot to do, so we can all come out stronger. Stay positive; you’ve got this!
Who is the author?
Mary Walton is a professional editor, content strategist, and part of gahmj team. Apart from writing, Mary is passionate about hiking and gaming. Feel free to contact her via Facebook
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