Tips for supporting your physical and mental health

It’s safe to say things have changed a little since our last post…

...ok, so ‘a little’ might be an understatement.

We all need to be looking after ourselves right now, as adjusting to this new normal can take its toll on our physical and mental health. With winter fast approaching, we’re also about to hit the cold and flu season.

So whether you’re in lockdown or self-isolating, we wanted to share some practical tips for supporting your health and well-being during these difficult times.

Let’s get started…

1. Check in with your diet (but don’t be too harsh)

Now that we’ve had a few weeks to adjust, it might be time to skip the comfort food.

Getting your hands on the usual grocery items is easier said than done these days. Meat is pricey, and supermarket shelves are scarce. With this in mind, now might be the perfect time to start eating more plant-based foods.

As we found in our recent look at Netflix’s ‘The Game Changers’, plant-based diets can improve your mental, physical, and sexual well being by reducing cortisol production and increasing testosterone. It’s a win, win!

With winter on the horizon, increasing your vegetable intake will go a long way in keeping you healthy throughout the colder months.

Struggling to eat well while adjusting to this new way of life? Here are a few helpful tips:

• Plan your meals before hitting the supermarket to avoid making any impulse purchases.
• Get creative! Whip up a dip, freeze grapes for a treat, or add fresh spinach to smoothies.
• Don’t be too hard on yourself. You’re only human! The odd snack or cheat meal is fine.

2. Be creative (and consistent) with exercise

Gyms were one of the first public places to shut their doors.

But don’t worry, when you return to the gym, you’ll be able to pick up where you left off.

In the meantime, keeping fit and active while isolating can be a challenge, especially if you’re stuck in a small apartment. Kiwis across the country are rising to the challenge, finding new and innovative ways to work out from home.

Surprisingly, you don’t need a lot of room to work out as you’ll soon learn from Joe Wicks, The Body Coach. With over 250 free home workouts, it’s easy to keep your fitness up in the comfort of your own home.

Les Mills On Demand also offers a range of different classes on an extensive free trial. The Les Mills app can be found on all smart devices, and most workouts don’t require any equipment at all.

Chris Hemsworth and his team of world-class trainers at Centr are also offering free trials on all workouts. You’ll find everything from HIIT to Yoga. Centr can also create a tailored meal plan to help you achieve your goals.

Exercise is essential for a healthy body and mind. Remember, it’s ok to exercise outside on your own or in your bubble. A little fresh air goes a long way to feeling refreshed.

Missing your gym gear or the motivation of group classes? Here are some ideas:

• Sturdy dining chairs are great for tricep dips, step-ups, and single-leg squats.
• Use everyday household items for weight training; fill water bottles for DIY dumbbells!
• Stairs are an excellent cardio workout, but running on the spot can be just as effective.

3. Focus on your mental health and minimise stress

Don’t forget to check in on how you’re really feeling.

Adjusting to this new way of life can leave you feeling frazzled, stressed, or anxious.

Stress has a way of exacerbating a situation, making us feel like we’ve lost control. While it’s normal to experience stress from time to time, it’s vital to recognise when your stress levels are becoming too high and to have some coping mechanisms in place.

Staying active and eating well benefits your mental health which is why exercise and diet are such important areas of focus while you’re stuck at home. Focus on the simple things. You’d be surprised what a good night’s sleep can do for your stress levels.

Feeling overwhelmed? We hear you. Here are some ways to reduce stress quickly:

• Minimise the feeling of isolation through regular virtual hangouts with family and friends on Zoom, Skype, FaceTime, or House Party.
• Use breathing exercises to calm your nerves, clear a busy mind, and de-stress.
• Go for a walk. Fresh air and a dose of sunshine might be just what you need.
• If it’s all a bit much, reach out to the amazing team at Lifeline. They’re here for you.

Stay safe, stay well, and look after yourself

A good diet, regular exercise, and minimising stress is key to staying active and healthy while you’re stuck at home. While it’s more important than ever to keep on top of your health, we know it isn’t always easy.

This is why TESTO® is running as usual throughout this time, with online orders being taken and shipped out. We’re committed to supporting your health, well-being, and sexual performance throughout this challenging period.