There are some that believe that all of the gyms in America should be open right now because people are in a bad state mentally, emotionally, and physically.

While I don’t think the intent is wrong, I don’t believe that we need to have gyms open in order to get active. I also think that in the middle of a pandemic many people are not comfortable going to a crowded gym.

Hate to break it everyone but this pandemic and sheltering in place is the long game. Facts are This ordeal is not ending anytime soon and we need to really get our minds around that.

We’ve seen the videos of people melting down in grocery stores and screaming at each other in parking lots.  Sure we can say it’s about this or that but I honestly think it’s because many Americans are anxious, depressed, fearful, and angry.

People are directing their anger at each other instead of examining what they are REALLY angry about and my suspicion is that answer is from the lack of control over current circumstances and also the lack of distractions to numb ourselves with.

Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms

According to an article from the Oxford Observer alcohol consumption has increased since the Pandemic began

According to data from The Nielsen Corporation, in the third week of March, alcoholic beverage sales were up 54% in stores nationwide — and throughout the month of April, online alcohol sales were up over 400%.  (Source Oxford Observer)

I’ve heard people joke about how they’re drinking way more alcohol and lots of alcohol during the day but I don’t think this is a laughing matter. 

Alcohol has become a coping strategy for people during this pandemic and that is dangerous because the longer this goes on, the more people will become alcohol dependent.

Alcohol isn’t the only coping strategy.  We can add stress eating to the list and also addiction to social media.  

Taking Care of yourself

While I think the person who said that all of the gyms need to be open had the right intent, there are other ways of taking care of yourself including:

Limiting social media

Posting the same traumatizing things over and over again along with endless arguing in order to be right isn’t accomplishing much or bringing results. It’s pretty sad to be honest and contributing to more anxiety, depression, and fear.

Also let me be completely honest with you about something: Many celebrities, influencers, and corporations are hurting financially right now and they know certain topics are hot. Watch who is signing deals to produce entertainment projects during this time. They’re profiting off of Black death and Black pain because they know there is a market for it right now whether due to guilt or performative activism.

The end goal of capitalism is to make money and that includes tragedy.

Eating 2-3 real meals per day

I’ve noticed it’s much easier to snack all day rather than eating real meals.  Often times these snack foods aren’t nutritious and without real nutrition, energy levels are low.  Low energy leads to more lethargy and of course a depressed mood.

Making Time for Activity (preferably outdoors)

While we need to avoid congregating in groups, it’s important to get outside in the fresh air and sunshine. I’ve recently gotten back into running out at the track and it does wonders for my mood and energy levels.

I believe the fresh air definitely helps that and is much better than the treadmill.

Take up a new activity

Your new activity should be something you enjoy.  As I mentioned above I’ve taken up running again, I’ve started doing crossword puzzles on my phone, and I’m still learning Spanish. One of my favorite things to do on the weekends now are to read trashy romance books and even old school Jackie Collins books! I haven’t read Jackie Collins since High School/College and it is so bad it’s good.

Start a Gratitude List

Times are so uncertain it’s important to be thankful for what’s not wrong right now. 

As the old song says, Just be Thankful for What you Got.

Coach yourself to play the Long Game

My sister told me today she is preparing herself to be in the house until next February.  I think she’s got the right idea.  The Spanish Flu lasted for 3 years.  This isn’t going away overnight.

This is the Summer of Health Folks…Let’s be intentional about taking care of ourselves!