Staying healthy in a pandemic stricken world

You’re practicing social distancing. Great! You’ve become a model for good hand hygiene, and you’re keeping those hands away from your face. But you’re probably wondering if there are things you should be doing to boost your immunity and health as well.

Lifestyle factors may also determine if you’re going to get sick or remain healthy. One of those factors is physical activity (PA). A sedentary lifestyle is usually associated with an increased risk for chronic disease, loss of movement, and decreased immune health. For those reasons, physical activity and movement are extremely important during the coronavirus pandemic.

Physically active individuals usually live longer than those who are inactive or may have a risk of heart disease. Inactivity is an important risk factor similar to high blood pressure, smoking, or high cholesterol. Allow me to paraphrase some of the benefits of exercise:

• Stress and anxiety relief: Stress and anxiety are rising with the current pandemic, and it can lower your immune response. Exercising releases chemicals in your brain, such as serotonin and endorphins which can help improve your mood, reduce the risk of depression and cognitive decline, and delay the onset of dementia.
• Immune support: Regular PA helps your immune system function.