The Covid-19 pandemic has taken a tremendous toll on people around the world: In addition to over a million deaths caused by this virus , thousands of businesses have closed as well. This has resulted in millions of hard-working people losing their jobs. If this isn’t bad enough, many cities around the world have implemented quarantine orders for the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th times, trapping people in their own homes. This unfortunate chain reaction has caused many to feel intense feelings of stress and anxiety as they scramble to find ways to pay their bills and stay afloat.
Stress Symptoms
Is covid causing you to feel stressed? Here are some of the top symptoms of stress:
- Headaches
- Acne
- Chronic pain
- Insomnia
- Decreased energy
- Frequent colds
- Digestive issues
- Decrease in sex drive
- Depression
- Rapid heartbeat
- Reduced appetite
Eating For Stress (Beware of Comfort Foods)
For many of us, food is one of the ways we relieve stress. Unfortunately, many of the foods we eat to feel better are not good for us. Pizza, fried foods, ice cream, chocolate and alcohol can be hazardous to our health if eaten in excess. Many of these foods are high in fat, calories, and artificial ingredients. They are also linked to the following ailments:
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Obesity
- Digestive issues
- Cancer
- cardiovascular disease
In other words, the foods we eat to help us deal with stressful situations can cause many other health issues as well. Instead of eating these foods in excess (or at all) to deal with stress, eat the following foods instead:
- Apples
- Walnuts
- Bananas
- Oats
- Pears
- Strawberries
- Salmon
- Oranges
- Dark chocolate
Each of these foods are high in nutrition, which can help the strengthen the immune system and help the body deal with stress and stressful situations.
In addition to food, there are many spices that are excellent for our overall health:
- Turmeric
- Cinnamon
- Sage
- Rosemary
- Ginger
- Black pepper
- Oregano
- Cilantro
- Ginseng
- Thyme
- Basil
- Mint
- Tarragon
- Dill weed
Dealing With Covid-Related Stress
Unfortunately, it seems like covid will be with us for a while, so its critical we find healthy ways to relieve this stress. Here are a few ways to deal with covid-related stress while practicing social distancing:
- Exercise outside
- Watch funny movies
- Connect with family and friends via Zoom
- Put together a jigsaw puzzle
- Reduce watching covid-related news stories
- Read a good book
Reading is a popular way to relieve stress. Here are a few benefits of reading:
Covid and the Vaccine
The covid vaccine is bringing much relief and hope to millions. However, it’s critical we stay vigilant and make sure our health remains a top priority. In other words, don’t put all your faith in the vaccine. make sure to keep your immune system strong as well.
Call To Action
Covid is affecting each of us in different ways. As a result, we must stay vigilant and make sure we keep our immune systems strong, not only for covid, but for other health issues we currently deal with and any future ones as well. It’s very possible in a few short years we will have a new pandemic to deal with, so we must be ready.
We must work to keep our stress levels low, and not stress about things out of our control. Fresh air, healthy food and a positive mindset are the keys to us surviving during these difficult times. Pick up a copy of my books The Three Pillars of Strength: Increasing Your Physical, Mental and Spiritual Fitness and The Diet For Success: Healthy Eating Tips For Hard Working Professionals. Available on Amazon.