Make time for Rest–
Good sleep is essential to good mental and physical health. Sleep is when the body restores itself- literally. Getting 7 (preferably 8 hours of sleep per night) is the goal. Studies show that sleep deficiency can result in metabolic side effects like weight gain and elevated blood sugar putting us at risk for prediabetes and diabetes. Poor sleep is of course also associated with irritability, depressed mood and anxiety. Commit to 7 hours. Maintain good sleep hygiene meaning limit screen time before bed, avoid caffeine after noon and opt against another episode on Netflix- your body will thank you for it.
Supplement right-
Adding the right supplements to a whole food diet can fill nutritional gaps and give your nutrition the proper boost it needs. I have created Dehl bar –a high protein and low calorie bar with functional ingredients like organic ashwagandha and turmeric making it the perfect quarantine snack. I use them daily and so do my husband and kids! I also commit to a daily protein shake in which I alternate turmeric and beet booster powder. Finally, I recommend ashwagandha for its mood enhancing properties. You can find the whole line of mindfully curated functional products at DehlNutrition.
Movement–
It may be difficult to motivate yourself to exercise these days but it is so important. Start by thinking about exercise as movement. Moving your body should not feel like a chore or a punishment! Consider what you love. Dancing around the house? Taking a long walk or hike with a partner or friend (physical distancing of course)? Or maybe you wound enjoy a free zoom class or the peloton? Find some activity that gives you joy, then commit to it non-negotiably. Moving your body will result in the release of many mood enhancing hormones- we need that right now? Not to mention the beneficial effects to your body.
Meditate–
Mindfulness meditation (MM) has been shown to have a whole slew of benefits, mind and body. Studies have shown that MM can enhance mood, reduce anxiety and depression, aid in sleep, help you stick to lifestyle change and to enhance immunity. Not your thing? Consider other ways to bring mindfulness and stillness into your life. A puzzle, cooking, a creative activity like writing or painting. Our nervous system is on overload and is begging for some space.