While the “See 10, Do 10,” push-up challenge is circulating the internet, I have another suggestion for four crucial exercises that will strengthen your physical, mental, spiritual and creative senses during this crazy time of quarantine.
Push-ups are hard. I had a couple friends tag me in the #See10Do10 push-up challenge on Instagram and it got me thinking. This is a crazy and unique time for everyone; we are all trying to figure out how to let go of our expectations of normal, while simultaneously settling into the new normal that quarantine requires. I am in the trenches along with you, and I have felt it take a toll on me. I send my thoughts and good vibes your way. We can make it through this!
We are all stuck at home, the world is uncertain and even a little scary. It can be overwhelming! I want to share some ideas of things that we all can DO during quarantine that will bring some semblance of normal, foster happiness, and lift us up. Here are four types of exercises that we can incorporate into our daily quarantine-life and beyond :
- PHYSICAL EXERCISE. Exercise has so many benefits. Exercise not only helps us control our weight, but it also lowers the risk of heart disease, manages blood sugar levels, improves mental health, sharpens brain and thought processes, and enhances sleep. We all know exercise is good for us; normal life often presents obstacles to squeezing in time for a good workout…but our current situation has likely lessened some of those barriers. We need to move our bodies. We need to exercise–for our mental health and our sanity! So however you want to move your body, do it. There are endless possibilities for at-home workouts. You can subscribe to MindBody, BeachBody, FreePay App, and a million other paid options; or, you can hop on Pinterest, YouTube or Google search for at-home workout ideas. Or you can go on a walk or a run outside (while practicing safe social distancing, of course). Maybe you live near mountains or trails–go walking, hiking, or running! Just do something everyday to exercise physically. I promise it will make a big difference!
- MENTAL EXERCISE. Challenge yourself mentally each day. Turn off the screens and pick up a Sudoku puzzle. Try your hand at crossword puzzles. Read a book. Write a book. Listen to a podcast. Do a puzzle, or anything that will stimulate the brain and sharpen mental engagement.
- SPIRITUAL EXERCISE. This exercise will look different for everyone depending on their belief system. The purpose of this exercise is to connect with something greater than ourselves; maybe that is God or Jesus, Buddha or simply the Universe in general. Practice gratitude, journal, pray, get out in nature, read sacred text, meditate, memorize scripture, whatever it may be. Remember that everything going on in the world is so much bigger than us. We can only control ourselves and our circles of influence and leave the rest to whomever or whatever is in charge. That act is liberating; anytime I exercise my spirituality I am bettered and uplifted because practicing spirituality invites peace into my life. Doing so daily will be invaluable to each of us during these quarantine days.
- CREATIVE EXERCISE. Finally, we need to be exercising some creativity while we are cooped up. Just today, a friend encouraged me to try macrame (a boho-inspired art of knot-tying to create beautiful wall hangings). I was skeptical at first but then I thought, “Why not?!” If Coronavirus does not teach us to slow down and appreciate normal life, I hope it at least teaches us that life is short and we need to be doing things and cherishing the people we love. So TRY MACRAME. Pick up watercoloring. Start a blog. Practice photography. Give calligraphy a shot. Sew something. Experiment cooking with food in your pantry. Whatever it is, be creative! Try something new! We have the time; we cannot let the only thing hold us back from exercising more creativity be ourselves. Go for it!
These four types of exercises do not need to be huge undertakings nor do they need to take up tons of time. And the best thing about each of these exercises is that there is no right or wrong way to exercise physically, mentally, spiritually and creatively. What is important is that we are doing it. Each exercise can be personalized to any individual’s circumstances and interests. Regardless of how the exercises are done, what can be assured is that by doing them, we will surely get a boost and feel more connected to ourselves!
As I have made an effort to do these four exercises, I have felt my tank fill up and last throughout the day during these difficult times. Quarantine does not need to be an unbearable time of life. We can make the most of our new normal as we take care of ourselves by exercising physically, mentally, spiritually, and creatively each day. Now, more than ever, we need to make sure our own needs are being met, and these four exercises help with that. We can make it through this! Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions you might have. I am cheering you on!
Melissa Cluff is a licensed marriage and family therapist based in Lewisville, Texas, personally seeing clients, via telehealth, in the North Dallas area.
References:
- Cluff Counseling: “#OptOutside”
- Cluff Counseling: “Exercise….It’s Not Just Good for the Body!”
- Cluff Counseling: “Outdoor Therapy: Nature’s Cure”
- Cluff Counseling: “Yoga: Changing How You See Yourself”
- Medline Plus: “Benefits of Exercise”
