Quick Fixes for a Healthy Heart in the Time of Pandemic.
Covid-19 has brought changes in our lives that even we couldn’t have brought to ourselves even if we tried. From remote working to social distancing, our routine has changed completely with kids running around and parents multi-tasking with meetings and homeschooling. With our hands full, we have little or no time for ourselves or our bodies.
Covid-19 seems to affect even a healthy heart. Though physical activity improves stamina, due to remote working, social distancing, and other restrictions, people tend to spend more time at home without any movements. And if contracted with the virus, it leads to more severe symptoms and makes the cure even more difficult. Even after the acute phase of viral infection, symptoms tend to persist which will need rehabilitation to get back to normal life. So it is time to step up and take care of your heart. Every beat counts!
Physical fitness includes better muscle function, stronger bones, and normal function of the heart and lungs which work hand in hand and plays a vital role in overall fitness.
The heart loves a healthy meal and regular exercise which can keep a lot of problems at bay. The key is to prioritize your health.
Being proactive and making choices that suit your lifestyle will provide beneficial effect in the long run. All you need to do is to get started.
Stretch Your Body
Remote working brings in long hours of sitting which can cause adverse effects on your heart health. Every 30 minutes make sure to get up and stretch those muscles and get the blood pumping through your body.
Workout Videos At Your Fingertips
Follow workout videos which can range from 15- 30 minutes from the comfort of your home as it saves time and money. You can do it during your break time or early morning or evenings at your own pace. Even a simple walk around your house can improve your mood and energy levels. Any movement throughout the day keeps your heart healthy and strong. Exercise makes your heart more efficient and its job easier.
The Worth of Water
People who drink five or more glasses of water have lower heart diseases. It also protects your spinal cord, tissues, bones, and joints. It boosts physical performance and flushes out waste from the body. Make it a habit to drink as soon as you are awake and before hitting the bed which can prevent a heart attack or stroke and maintains your blood pressure. Let the heart do its work without interruption.
Heart-Healthy Foods
Add lots of fruits and vegetables to your diet. Fish, lean poultry, nuts, and even those yummy chocolates can help to strengthen your heart as they are all loaded with vitamins and antioxidants. Fiber helps in reducing bad cholesterol so load your pantry with whole wheat, quinoa, oats, and buckwheat. Maybe a bar of chocolate or two once in a while can benefit you as they are rich in anti-oxidants, especially dark chocolates. Please don’t forget to limit or avoid saturated fats and processed foods.
Covid -19 has definitely changed our outlook and we may see things differently for a very long time but let’s not waste time. Find time to walk or run, experiment with your food(in a healthier way), play with your kids or dog if you have one. They can make you sweat which is actually good for you. Stay happy and smile. Happiness is good for you!
