It’s really easy to feel stuck and not feel your best during these tough times, I keep reminding myself that this is not forever. I don’t have any clue how long it’s going to last, but you got this. We all do. And we should take this time to reflect on how and what we’d like to change and ways we can give back.

I know people are struggling with boredom, but we have been given the gift of time that we usually complain we don’t have. So, this is a time to start taking care of yourself. Walk more, throw in some pushups, and step up your smoothie game. You can also get to all those projects you haven’t done around the house, whether it's organizing a closet, going through old photos and reminiscing about your wedding, or getting into the kitchen and starting to cook. This is the time to reconnect with friends and family. This is the time to reach out and help others.

I know we will all go back to living a normal life, so my advice to you is to take this time to reflect. Reflect on how you can live your life better, how you can be a better person, how you can feel better and how you can help.

Here are some of my tips on how you can improve your health and wellness while you’re at home.

Breathe

Turn off your phone. Mute your notifications. Take a break from checking the news. Step away from whatever you are doing and take some deep breaths. Inhale for a count of five, hold for five, and exhale for a count of five. It will make a huge difference and you’ll feel it right away.

Make Time for Self Care

Maybe you take five minutes in the morning for a meditation before you sit down to work or set aside time for an epsom salt bath at the end of the day after the kids have gone to sleep. Whatever it is, even if it is only for a few minutes, make sure you do something that makes you feel good everyday.

Stay Hydrated

By now you know that my number one wellness tip is to drink more water. If it is something you’ve struggled with in the past, now is the perfect time to make it a priority. Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or make an infusion in a pitcher with fresh fruit and coconut.

Give Back

I'm very encouraged when I see what is happening in my own community. There is a group of people who are raising money and feeding the doctors on the night shift while also supporting local restaurants. (Thank you to Tara Tersigni for spearheading this and to Montclair Town Councilwoman Robin Schlager.) When you can find a way to help those around you, it’s going to help you get through this and make our communities and social networks stronger.

One way you can support those who need it most by making a donation to your local food bank. You can find your local food bank and make donations at Feeding America.

Take a Walk

I know this is getting more difficult for some people to do, but if you have an opportunity to get outside, take it. (Remember to stay six feet away from others!) The fresh air will do your body and mind some serious good.

I walk every single day because it helps clear my mind and while I’m out, I usually call someone that I haven’t talked to in a while or someone that I don’t usually talk to on the phone often, someone that I normally only text or DM. I have had all these conversations that I really value.

Eat Nourishing Foods

Keep feeding your body healthy, colorful, nourishing foods. Please don’t fall into the “well we’re home, might as well eat whatever we want” mindset. I know it’s tempting to go hard on the snack foods and sweet treats, but you’ll feel better (and help protect your immune system) if you focus on eating whole, natural foods. You can find a few of my favorite recipes here.

Take care of yourself. Together we will get through this.