Our wellbeing is crucial during COVID-19, asserts Ram Duriseti

The desire to engage with others socially is a crucial integral part of human nature. The COVID-19 pandemic has taken our expectations of normal life and flipped them on their head. The months-long pandemic has revolutionized our day-to-day activities and the workplace. In these unprecedented times, it is all too easy to neglect our wellbeing. Whether you are working from home or enjoying some unexpected downtime, it is imperative that you prioritize your physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing. 

Ram Duriseti’s views on wellness during the pandemic

The clear impacts of this pandemic are fear and anxiety. The uncertainty of the pandemic and the future of our world can trigger some people’s fight or flight response.  People who are self-quarantining solo are away from their family might experience occasional mood swings. All these emotions are natural, but they must be addressed. When your entire routine disappears, it can be difficult to hold yourself to a healthy regimen. Emergency medicine doctor Ram Durisetibelieves it is necessary to implement a physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing plan. This article details some of his advised measures to ensure a healthy lifestyle amidst a pandemic.

·       Physical wellbeing

To have the best chance of fighting off the virus is to bolster your immune system. Some of the best ways to maintain a healthy immune system include daily exercise and physical movements. Doctors have asked people to go for morning and evening walks, while appropriately social distancing and wearing masks. However, if you reside in an area where the cases of infection are increasing, it’s best to exercise at home. Other than exercising, it is essential to consume balanced meals in an appropriate manner. Taking multivitamins can supplement your meals and provide you with the proper nutrients to have a healthy gut. 

·       Emotional wellbeing

It’s natural to feel bouts of uncertainty and fear during this time. It can be especially frustrating with no developed vaccine, and thus, no vision of a world equipped to handle COVID-19. It is essential to exercise patience. Appropriate consumption of news from unbiased, research-backed sources is alright, but obsessing over every post on social media is unhealthy. It can increase anxiety and feelings of hopelessness. Rather, prioritize new hobbies or activities that you can do at home to engage your mind and keep your focus off of catastrophizing news sources. 

·       Mental wellbeing

Meditation and deep breathing can help you reestablish a sense of calm in the chaos caused by the pandemic. Journaling is another avenue to help you reduce your stress. Additionally, take care to follow the protocols released by medical professionals in order to increase your chance of remaining healthy and flattening the curve. If you protect your outsides, you are more likely to be at ease mentally regarding your own wellbeing. 

These are a few tactics using which you can keep your physical, emotional, and mental health intact during the pandemic. It is also a good idea to speak to your general physician and therapist for further guidance.