Health Desk- 23 March 2020: As new COVID-19 cases
continue to emerge in the WHO European Region, many healthy individuals are
being requested to stay at home in self-quarantine.
Self-quarantine can cause additional stress and challenge
the mental health of citizens. Physical activity and relaxation techniques can
be valuable tools to help you remain calm and continue to protect your health
during this time.
WHO recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75
minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week, or a combination of
both. These recommendations can still be achieved even at home, with no special
equipment and with limited space. The following are some tips on how to stay
active and reduce sedentary behaviour while at home in self-quarantine:
Take short active breaks during the day. Short bouts of
physical activity add up to the weekly recommendations. You may use the
suggested exercises below as inspiration to be active every day. Dancing,
playing with children, and performing domestic chores such as cleaning and
gardening are other means to stay active at home.
Follow an online exercise class. Take advantage of the
wealth of online exercise classes. Many of these are free and can be found on
YouTube. If you have no experience performing these exercises, be cautious and
aware of your own limitations.
Walk:
Even in small spaces, walking around or walking on the spot,
can help you remain active. If you have a call, stand or walk around your home
while you speak, instead of sitting down. If you decide to go outside to walk
or exercise, be sure to maintain at least a 1-meter distance from other people.
Stand up:
Reduce your sedentary time by standing up whenever possible.
Ideally, aim to interrupt sitting and reclining time every 30 minutes. Consider
setting up a standing desk by using a high table or stacking a pile of books or
other materials, to continue working while standing. During sedentary leisure
time prioritize cognitively stimulating activities, such as reading, board
games, and puzzles.
Relax:
Meditation and deep breaths can help you remain calm. A few
examples of relaxation techniques are available below for inspiration.
For optimal health, it is also important to remember to eat
healthily and stay hydrated. WHO recommends drinking water instead of
sugar-sweetened beverages. Limit or avoid alcoholic beverages for adults and
strictly avoid these in young people, and pregnant and breastfeeding women, or
for other health reasons. Ensure plenty of fruits and vegetables, and limit the
intake of salt, sugar and fat. Prefer whole grains rather than refined foods.
For more guidance on how to eat healthily, please see the WHO fact sheet on
healthy diet.
Warning!!
This guidance is intended for people in self-quarantine
without any symptoms or diagnosis
of acute respiratory illness. It should not replace medical
guidance in case of any health condition.
Source: WHO
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