Many of our everyday routine, if not available, are still restricted due to the threat of the COVID-19. We not only lost social interaction, but we also lost access to fitness facilities. Instead, we find comfort in Netflix and the convenience of stocking canned food. And this does not sound appealing to our physical and mental health.

As this pandemic continues to require us to stay home, you might find yourself easy to fall into bad habits. It may be hard to condition the mind to do anything during this challenging time. Fortunately, you can prevent that from happening.

Your physical and mental health could use a bit of support now more than ever. Here is your guide to keep your body fit and your mind sane while quarantining:

Before anything else, keep your space clean

When we say clean, we also mean disinfect. Cleaning and disinfecting are totally different words but you get it. According to some studies, the COVID-19 virus can survive on surfaces: plastic, stainless steel, paper, glass, cardboard, and wood. For how long, the research is still ongoing. While nothing is certain as we speak, just keep your house clean and sanitized all the time.

If you want everything spotless, from the ceiling down to the floor, but you don’t have the right equipment, you can always call for a home cleaning service.

Also, it will be easier to move around if your surroundings are well-organized and everything is in place. With a clear space and a clear mind, you may feel everything is possible.

Meditate every day

With many of us locked at home searching for ways to release the emotional distress the pandemic is bringing us, meditation can be a fantastic approach. Meditation reduces anxiety, improves sleep, and can decrease blood pressure. Everyone can do meditation, even kids, to improve their mental well-being.

Exercise regularly

Not having a gym to go to is not an excuse to stop exercising. There are personal trainers that can train you virtually. You may also find a lot of workout packages online and begin exercising by your own phase.

Try to be creative and resourceful if you don’t own fitness equipment at home. Use what is already available to you.

Being physically active does not have to mean gym workouts only. Squats, burpees, sit-ups, and planking at home will count too. Just remember to keep it a daily habit.

Be mindful of what you eat

While many stores are still open, it is not a great idea to go shopping as often as you used to. Make a list of what you need to get the most out of your shopping trip. Get enough nutritious food to support. Go for vegetables that can last a long time when stored in the fridge like broccoli, potatoes, and carrots.

You might also want to consider gardening. A lot of Americans are back to gardening again for food and stress-relief.

Learn a skill

Quarantine is the perfect time to explore a new hobby. Learn that skill you have been putting off for so long. You can choose to learn cooking, gardening or sewing. We have heard there is a high demand for sewing machines since the pandemic started. There are tons of things you can learn with the amount of time you have during the lockdown. Learning a skill can be an efficient way to stay busy.

Socialize online

There is no better time to call your family and friends than at this challenging time. Through ‘zooming’ with family and friends, you get to practice socialization without breaking the social-distancing protocol.

This will not replace a real human interaction but this will help you avoid being anxious or reduce it if you already are having it. The best part, you also give others a mental boost.

Practice daily gratitude

Expressing gratitude makes you happier.

According to Dr. Robert A. Emmons of the University of California, Davis, and Dr. Michael E. McCullough of the University of Miami, counting your blessings boosts your health and makes you happier.

Expressing gratitude is something you give that keeps on going back to you in a positive way. So go ahead and get yourself a journal and start writing down the things you are thankful for today.

These are among the things that are vital to keeping a sound body and a sound mind during lockdown. It is still uncertain when this pandemic will be over. Your physical and mental health will be needing more support now more than ever. Take this situation as a perfect time to take care of yourself.