Pandemic Blues

During the pandemic we’re all a bit depressed because of the limitations it has placed on our lives. Add the fear of contracting the virus and it’s a wonder we’re not chewing our ankles off to escape. As we become depressed because of the effects of the pandemic with no realistic end in sight, it’s natural that we tend to forget or even sluff off the necessity to nurture our mind and body. In a lockdown it’s important to keep in touch with friends and relatives. Hearing the voice of someone you care about can help lift one’s spirits. Books, television, radio and the internet are resources that can help feed one’s mind.

Have you forgotten to nurture your body during the pandemic? Come on, admit it. We all have skipped a shower, forgotten to wash our face or have kept a certain pair of sweatpants on longer than we’d like to admit. By not nurturing your mind and body you’re giving in to the effects of the pandemic. I have two words: TAKE CONTROL! In spite of these crushing realities, it’s time to take control and invest in our well-being.

First things first. Act as if you’re going somewhere. When you wake up start your day with a shower or bath. This is a great way to begin the day feeling refreshed. Be sure to wash your face with a gentle cleanser in the morning and at night. Next, apply a deep moisturizing cream or serum on your face. Don’t forget to moisturize your hands, arms and legs. These parts are in a serious drought and need some TLC as well. If you have skin issues such as dark spots, discoloration, age spots, liver spots, etc., take the time to treat your skin with a good intensive dark spot cream. If you have other skin issues, still use the products or prescribed medicinal formulas to maintain a healthy and vibrant skin. Having a daily skincare routine can be a nice way to practice self-care and treat your body like the temple that it is.

Now let’s nurture the inside of your body. Eat well and eat healthy. As they say, “Garbage in, garbage out.’ A healthy diet is not only important to keep your body functioning well, but is also an important tool against depression setting in. A lot of research coming out is highlighting the connection between our gut health Along with a healthy diet it’s important to continue to supplement one’s diet with supplements such as Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Zinc, Magnesium and Omega 3’s. A supplement that offers a full spectrum of B vitamins is icing on the cake for proper nutrition. Much of what we eat has one or more of the nutrients listed but not in enough of a quantity to really support a healthy body. That’s why supplements are important if not crucial in normal times, but especially when we’re locked down during the pandemic. As a reminder, it’s always a good idea to consult with your physician regarding supplements, especially if you are taking certain medications or have particular health conditions.

As the pandemic continues, the feeling that one’s world is closing in on them is understandable if not a given. Because we can’t simply chew our ankle off to escape we have to find ways to stimulate our mind as well as our body inside and out. Take a breath, realize there’s nothing one can do to eliminate the pandemic and decide to live. Remember you have a beautiful mind so do all you can to keep it active and healthy. If you’re deeply depressed don’t let the pandemic win. Seek help! Even in the pandemic tele-therapy is available. Kick the pandemic’s behind by maintaining proper nutrition/supplementation as well as being loving to your skin and mind. Remember that you’re not alone. We’re all in this together.