A healthy attitude to Covid-19
With headlines dominated by developments of COVID-19 and the distortion of social media and the desolation of the supermarkets, it’s understandable to be in a position of panic and disillusionment.
NHS guidelines and government recommendations are clear and well advertised.
Social distancing does not mean you cannot get outside and enjoy being in nature. Numerous studies have clearly shown the benefits of getting outside against depression and feelings of helplessness.
This does not mean you have to get out for a training session, unless of course you want to. With aspects of our personal, mental, financial and professional ‘health’ coming under strain at this time, it is likely to be more harmful to enforce a large calorie deficit or thinking you have to train.
If you don’t want to do home workouts or measure calories, don’t. Keep your mind busy. A busy mind does not boredom eat, a busy mind does not sink into negativity, a busy mind stays active.
There are those in the world who will try and monetise global tragedy and today we are not immune from this. There are those who claim to have the ‘diet hack’, the ‘nutrition secrets’ or the ‘health cure’ to COVID-19. Let me make one thing clearthese do not exist.
People who are claiming these are doing so with no evidence to support their claims and are preying on the vulnerable. Please, beware of social media and do not give your money to these people. Science will develop to this illness and the answer will not be broadcast on a Facebook comment before anywhere else.
Ultimately, there are no nutritional secrets for this virus. The body does not know yet how to fight the infection and eating ‘spirulina infused tofu kale shakes’ will not help.
Exercising basic healthful practices will ensure you maintain healthy habits, act positively for your immune system and stay mentally happier.
It is important to be sensitive to those at risk and those who are vulnerable. However, if you do have the chance to get outside, to go for a walk away from people, out in nature, this is a great time to do so, ensuring you maintain social distance or isolation.
If you know someone who cannot get outside, walk past their house, give them a wave, skype while outdoors, bring the outdoors to them.
Please understand the strain on emergency services, this is not the time to be pushing into unknown terrain or pushing extreme sports. WE not ME. This is a time to read more, connect with families and friends, socialise online and learn more.
I would be remiss here not to mention the local businesses who are facing a very real financial threat. The high streets of the Highlands are adapting to the changes faced (Fort William has been inspirational), while respecting social distancing, please do not forget about these establishments, they need us now more than ever.
We are in uncertain times, but this is not the time for mass panic. Please respect the guidelines, remain sensitive to those at risk and do not be selfish with your socialising or activities.
I am here to offer any nutritional and fitness support to anyone who needs it in the Lochaber area. Details can be found on my website at www.athleteadventure.com
I will do everything I can to help those who are worried about their health or want any evidence-based advice.