The importance of Diet and Exercise for Mental Health

As we go through the isolation that the current pandemic (COVID-19) has brought upon us. The lockdown, the loss of jobs, the isolation and the lack of human touch and interaction are concerns. We are forced to isolate ourselves more and more. Some handle isolation a lot better than others. It’s totally alright to feel like we need to reach out for help when isolation is just way too much to bear. Online mental health support is available and upon search, there are quite a few who offer this type of service.

As a result of the pandemic, many people have been forced to stay at home and adjust their daily routines. This has led to an increase in online searches for information on lifestyle modifications, diet and exercise, as people try to find ways to stay healthy while being isolated. For some, staying at home has been a struggle, especially for those who used to enjoy outdoor activities like running, biking, or walking with their dogs. Some people have been able to adapt to exercising at home, while others have lost their motivation to exercise altogether. Those who have not been able to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine may have gained weight, which can negatively affect their self-esteem and confidence.

According to research and studies, a regular good diet and exercise may have significant positive effects. It can affect a person’s mental health and well-being. Besides, it may help in handling episodes of depression, anxiousness, lower levels of stress. Also, it may improve memory, promotes better sleeping patterns and improve a person’s mood altogether. Take one’s mood, for example, psychologists may say group exercises force social interaction and provide a sense of purpose and goals. It can then be said to help self-esteem and overall outlook.

However, too much of anything is not healthy, either. If we diet and exercise too much, it may lead to injuries and exhaustion. Finding a happy middle is the key to promoting good mental health whilst keeping in shape and feeling good and better about ourselves.

Just to make it clear, our bedrooms, are not the best spaces to exercise. Sometimes it is all that we have. When it comes to creating a conducive environment for a good fitness regimen, there are a lot of distracting factors. For example children, pets, television and the bed that invites us to just lay and roll all day. Coming up with a good home workout is half the battle. Along with a good diet, here are a few steps exercise steps that you can practice at home.

1) Core Home Workout Regimen:

1. Aim –for 10 to begin and work your way up to more repetitions. Note that tucking your feet under a couch, chair or table may decrease the stress needed to lift yourself up. Note any unnecessary strain or aches. Listen to your body so as not to harm yourself.
2. Crunches – If sit-ups are just too tough for you, go for crunches. Aim for three sets.
3. Bicycles – Lie flat on your back with your feet up in the air, knees bent. Place your two hands behind the nape of your neck and rest. Begin pumping your legs alternatively in the air for a minute, rest and then do another minute. Aim to do this for a couple of minutes for a vigorous cardio and core muscle workout.
4. Planks – This may be a great toning technique. Hands down, rest elbows and toes firmly against the floor and hold your back, whole body and legs straight. Hold this position for a minute if you can.

2) Cardio Home Workout Moves:

1. Jumping Jacks – This will definitely get your heart rate pumping.
2. Skipping – This can form part of a leg workout and help you to break a sweat.

3) Lower Body Home Workout Routine:

1. Squats – Make sure your back is straight and then drop yourself to a squatting position and repeat. Watch your technique and notices any aches or pains which could be a sign to stop.
2. High Knees – Jog in place for 10 minutes but with your knees thrown up in the air as high as you can.

Upper Body Home Routine:

1. Push-ups – If you are a beginner, it is totally acceptable to bear weight on your knees as opposed to your toes while you have your hands flat on the floor while you push yourself up. This tones the chest, arms and triceps.
2. Dips – Sit on a sturdy chair and then place the palm of your hands at the edge of the seat. Push your buttocks out until it is suspended in the air and then bend elbows slightly as you drop your hips towards the floor.

To wrap up, there are many ways to cope with isolation. It's up to us to decide whether we want to seek help to feel better. Talking to professionals who specialize in psychology, counseling, or psychiatry can be helpful, and if medication is needed, your doctor can provide advice. Taking care of your diet and exercise can also help you handle isolation better, but we understand that it can be challenging. Don't hesitate to seek professional help if needed.

It's worth noting that Mental Health Services in Australia (MHSA) is a reflection of the government's efforts to provide accessible health and welfare services for those who feel lost, hopeless, or in need of help. If you're interested, you can find more information and statistics on this topic from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.

Staying at home may be necessary due to the COVID19 pandemic. However, it should not be a hindrance for any of us who wish to get help. There are bulk-billed online telehealth services offered and all we have to do is to reach out for help. If isolation is just way too much to bear, then do not bear it alone. Online mental health support is available and upon search, there are quite a few who offer this type of service.