Basic Tips to Make Sure You Don’t Slip Whilst Stuck At Home

I’ve been seeing posts on social media of people saying we shouldn’t be too hard on ourselves during this global pandemic and the current quarantine.

It’s a difficult time and we’re bound to go to the snack cabinet more times now since we’re inevitably locked in the same structure with it. How many times can you pass that bag of chips without grabbing a handful? And how much damage could just one cookie do around lunch time?

I don’t disagree that we need to go easy on ourselves during this current crisis and not feel too negatively about ourselves. But I also don’t think a quarantine means we should ruin any personal progress we’ve made in the last 6 months or so. We should still hold ourselves accountable for the amount of junk we eat and minimum exercise we put ourselves through.

Everyone reading this is stronger than that – and I know it.

Here’s a few things to consider if your struggling to set boundaries during this quarantine:

Food

Food is something we can forget about when we’re on the move, but something that creeps into our mind even at the slightest sign of slowing down. It can be the ultimate fuel for our bodies or the ultimate deterrent to seeing ourselves reach our optimal results.

But just because we are home more and find ourselves eating more doesn’t mean that it has to be all junk. There are a number of refreshing, low-calorie treats you can enjoy during this quarantine and as the weather gets nice.

• Watermelon. The often overlooked fruit. This melon tastes great, is very filling, and is the perfect treat for a warm day. Have as many watermelon slices as you want this weekend and not feel guilt because of the low amount of calories.
  
• Cranberry Lime Slushy. What do you get if you combine all-natural cranberry juice with lime juice and ice in a blender? Pour into a cup and you’re off and running with a delicious little mid-day treat.

• Greek Yogurt. This packed-with-protein treat is delicious and filling. Put some in a bowl, mix in some fruit (maybe some nuts?) and you have yourself a delicious to-go snack.

• Hummus with fresh veggies. Grab your carrots, celery sticks, cucumber slices, zucchini – whatever you want – and dip it into your favorite hummus. This layered snack will taste delicious and provide you with a ton of protein – and even more delicious.

 

Who said being healthy needs to be boring? These snacks are full of flavour and there’s a million ways to do something different every day.

Fitness

Just because the local fitness centre is shut down, does not mean your personal fitness levels need to suffer. You can give yourself a great workout with next to no equipment inside our house. And we are still allowed to leave the house for a daily workout!

Here some activities that will get you outdoors and help you get in shape.  

• Run or cycle. Here is the obvious one: go for a run, walk, jog, or bike ride every day. You have no idea how good these activities are for the body when done regularly.

• Rowing or kayaking. If you’ve been rowing or kayaking lately, you know that it gives you a great, complete body workout. Grab a paddle, get out on the lake, and feel the burn.

• Clean up the landscape. Why not get in shape while doing good? Get out there and clean up the neighborhood or the side of the highway – you’ll be making a difference in your community and you’ll go home feeling completely worn out.

• Outdoor yoga or tai chi. Yoga and tai chi are a great way to stay fit but also a ton of fun to do. Do this in the great outdoors and you’ll enjoy this activity even more.

 

These are just a few examples of how you can stay active while at home and unable to visit your local fitness centre. There’s a ton of options for you to consider, so figure out what you enjoy and run with it!

Go Easy On Yourself, But Don’t Throw Away Your Progress!

I understand the need to go easy on ourselves at all times when dealing with our personal appearance and fitness levels, but it doesn’t mean we’re free to do whatever we want. Be strict with yourself and don’t let yourself slip too far.

You can do it and we’ll do it together.