By Dr. Luke Ross“Having a positive attitude gives us control over our circumstances, instead of our circumstances having control over us” - Joyce Meyer. There’s no question the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted day-to-day life as we know it. Perhaps you were stood down or directed to work from home. Maybe you were juggling conference calls around toddler demands. Or, suddenly your profession was teacher to your kids as their classroom became a ‘Zoom’. The norm’ was all new.What’s surfaced is that humans truly are adaptable and we can change to combat a threat. In fact, this experience shows us how some healthy life habits are truly essential to our wellbeing:

1. Take downtime when we need it

 It’s perfectly reasonable to use some time off as a ‘mini holiday’. After all, allowing yourself time to rest and reflect is important for our overall health. That said, it’s still essential your rest time has some routine basics:-     set an alarm so you wake at the same time each day

• Keep to your usual meal frequency. Don’t forget to hydrate.

• Be active.

• Achieve ‘one thing’ each day. For example, my partner aims to make the bed. A simple task, yet it kick starts you each day to continue achieving little things throughout the day.

2. Self-reflection

 Stopping and self-evaluating is something we rarely give time to in our daily routines. However, it’s an essential part to move forward with your life. If we don’t take time to review, analyse or even think about ourselves, how can we set goals to improve? Whether it’s a personal quality or a decision you need to make – taking time out to reflect is a really important task that facilitates change for the better. 

3. Keep your brain active

 As tempting as a Netflix marathon can be (I did it too), it’s important to engage our brain in stimulating activities. Whether you choose to learn a new skill or hobby, catch up on some home projects or listen to a podcast; take the time to use your brain. Even exercise is good for it! 

4. Spend time (safely) with family

 ‘Lockdown’ has shown that spending time with loved ones really does energise you and bring happiness to each day. Well, not every day – sometimes your family can drive you mad – but you know what I mean! Quality time with family helps foster strong relationships, and, if you have kids – helps extend learning and diminish behavioural issues. 

5. Embrace the internet to keep connected

 Especially for anyone isolated, it is so important that you call or Facetime people to stay in touch. I’ve used Zoom with my coworkers, family, and friends. If you run out of things to talk about, bust out a board game. Scattergories is my favourite. 

6. Exercising in creative ways

 Regular exercise is good for a whole host of reasons – not justto keep off the kilos from the ‘Oh, I’m right next to the fridge’ snacking. Being active gets some fresh air into your lungs, your eyes off a screen, your blood pumping and your muscles going. Even something as simple as a 20 to 30-minute walk will do you a world of good. If you are in need of workout inspiration, check out sydney spine, gabs_got_your_back and luke_veverka on Instagram. 

Learn More

 At Sydney Spine and Sports Clinic, we put you first. We believe in offering chiropractic care that enables you to make informed and educated choices about your health. If you are suffering pain and would like to talk to us about how we can help you get mobile and active again – get in touch right here.