How to Stay Healthy During Self-Isolation

During self-isolation, adhering to healthy self-care practices can help improve your well-being, manage stress, and support your immune system. Today Dr. Hubert Lee of CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA, is sharing his top 6 self-care tips.

1. Get sufficient sleep. Your sleep health may be disturbed by stress and conditions, including depression and anxiety. Sleep and mental health are directly connected, as a loss of sleep are associated with negative outcomes, such as impaired cognitive function and mood.

2. Get regular exercise. While your fitness center may temporarily be closed, maintaining physical activity is essential. Research suggests that exercise can reduce stress. Exercising at least once a week is associated with a lower heart rate at rest and may, therefore, protect against the emotional consequences of acute stress.

3. Manage stress. Chronic stress has been shown to have a negative effect on a person’s health by elevating cardiovascular disease risk factors and the risk of a heart attack. The CDC recommends certain stress management techniques, including:

• Taking care of your physical health via deep breathing, stretching, exercising, avoiding drug and alcohol intake, and meditation;
• Taking some time away from social media and news;
• Connecting with others and sharing your feelings;
• Making time for activities you enjoy.

4. Eat a nutritious diet. For optimal health, consume a variety of whole foods, especially fruit, whole grains, beans, legumes, vegetables, healthy fats, and small portions of fish. Hydration is also vital to reducing disease risk and maintaining health.

5. Stay connected to others. While in self-isolation, this can be more challenging, but it’s doable. Consider using online video calling tools to stay in touch, such as WhatsApp, Facetime, Zoom, Google Duo, and Skype. Online groups and clubs are coming together for activities ranging from video games to birdwatching, and virtual cocktail hours and concerts.

6. Focus on self-improvement. With the extra time at home, you have time for those activities in which you find fulfillment. Focus on the things that support health and well-being, including exercise, stress management, a healthy diet, and adequate rest.

These lifestyle approaches can be helpful in maintaining your well-being and pass the time. Take care of yourself during self-isolation by following these self-care tips from Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA.

Stay safe, healthy, and in good spirits!