Last year was filled with change, no doubt. Some changes were mandated in an abundance of caution and unavoidable in the name of public safety. Meanwhile other changes were personal and made from necessity or personal choice. However different each of our lives were, and continue to be, one common thread that will always unite us is our need for healthy, daily interaction with others. Without it, our mental and physical health suffers.
We understand that many people are still fearful of their safety and uncertain about the new normal. As you navigate those feelings, we encourage you to incorporate day-to-day activities into your routine that can enhance your mood and help nurture the side of you that thrives from person-to-person interaction.
There’s an Arabian Proverb we discovered and kinda’ love…
He who has health
has hope;
and he who has hope
has everything.
So to protect your health (spiritual, mental and physical) and to bring about more hope in your life…
Get outside with a friend. As a comfy night on the couch watching Netflix turned into weeks of the same inactivity in 2020, many of us missed the positive impacts of sunlight, a brief walk and time spent with friends. However, as the weather improves and with summer upon us, now is the time to remind yourself what a fifteen-minute walk outside can do for you. So, to help boost your mood try to soak up some Vitamin D outside, move your body, and chat with your good neighbor about the day.
Remember to breathe. Deep breathing exercises are one of the most effective ways you can immediately reduce stress. When you find yourself feeling anxious, practice pausing. Making time to intentionally pause, or to remove yourself from a situation, can help you identify and address the stress you are feeling. Then, be intentional about taking a few deep breaths, inhaling and exhaling with purpose. When you are taking time to pause, maybe spend those quiet moments with someone who loves and cares about you; that is, someone who can offer you a hug and words of encouragement.
Move your body. Some people really got into fitness while staying home, while others gained the COVID nineteen (and then some). Taking time to incorporate daily activity into your routine may seem super easy to some and impossible to others. If you are thinking the latter, find a friend to keep you on track or start small. Starting small may look like doing some jumping jacks and stretching while watching your favorite evening show. However, the American Heart Association recommends getting “at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity” (or about 20 minutes a day) to see the most benefits to your health.
We recognize that these activities are viewed as easy to some, but that is not the situation for everyone. If you are facing an unexpected pregnancy, feeling down and unable to feel hopeful, it is important to talk to someone.
Essential Pregnancy Services offers professional counseling to women facing unexpected pregnancies, as well as other pregnancy services. All of our services are 100 percent cost free. There are no obligations and no insurance required. Call or text our helpline to talk to someone right now. You also may request your appointment online now. We are here to help!
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