Things feel really stressful and uncertain for most folks right now with the spread of COVID-19. Having diabetes can add another layer of complexity to what’s happening.
Luckily, the American Diabetes Association has some great information on COVID-19 for folks with diabetes.
I have put together a list of resources for you to stay active, calm, and entertained in this time of social distancing.
Table of Contents
Move your body
Staying physically active is important—here are 15 online workouts you can do at home including yoga and HIIT. If you’re tight on cash, no worries! There are several free options.
Digital workout classes have been gaining popularity over the last year. Joyn focuses on joyful movement for every body type and ability with a focus of moving in a way that feels great for you. DailyBurn also has a variety of classes to chose from and ranges in intensity from beginner to master. If you’re looking to support local businesses like yoga and dance studios while they’re closed for the time being, check their websites for online class options!
Additionally, taking some hikes, walking the dog, and riding your bike are great activities you can do while practicing social distancing. You don’t have to stay inside during this period! Soak up that sunshine on a nice nature hike.
Take care of your mind
Your anxiety might be a little high right now with everything that’s happening, so making your mental health a priority is important.
The Calm app and website has a curation of meditations, stories, and mindfulness resources to help you take a breather and reset.
Mediation might not be for everyone—no worries! Here are 25 more apps for mental health including professional therapy, breathing exercises, mood tracking, and self-help. If you’re struggling to receive care for self-help right now, resources like the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and National Eating Disorder Association websites have online resources for folks who need support.
Social media is a blessing and a curse in times like this. If you need a break from the constant news cycle, you’re in luck! You can mute words on Twitter for a few days (or forever), mute people on Instagram, and snooze people on Facebook.
Need some inspiration? Check out our blog: 5 Empowering Quotes That’ll Help You Get Through Tough Days with Diabetes
Connect with people
Connection in the era of social distancing can seem daunting, but thanks to technology, there are many great ways to stay in touch.
Loop & Tie created a great guide for connecting in disruptive times for both work teams and individuals.
FaceTime and other apps have changed how we communicate in the past few years. If you want to video chat with larger groups, there are even more options.
Elderly folks are particularly susceptible to getting sick right now, so staying home for them is even more important. Letting writing is a great way to stay in touch with folks and bring them a little joy. Minnesota’s East Side Elders is hosting a letter-writing campaign for local elderly folks. Letters of Love is also collecting letters from folks all over the world.
Get out and explore
Sure, you have to stay home, but that doesn’t mean you can’t explore the world!
There are stunning virtual museum tours, breathtaking national parks, live camera feeds from famous zoos, as well as aquariums. National and state parks in your area may also be open. Check online and head on out!
We are all in this together.
Your friend,
Mina
