Finding Your Rhythm and Routine During the Quarantine

As you adjust to working and living in a shared space, whether you are alone, or coordinating many moving parts (a partner, children, animals), it’s important to carve out time for yourself both mentally and physically. Remember, this situation is temporary, and you want to be ready to step back into your normal busy city life when this is all over. Moreover, moderate amounts of exercises boosts your body’s immune system! Take that coronavirus!

1. Find a routine and stick to it. In our house, it works both in the morning and evening. Set a morning alarm for stretches and deep breaths, and same thing in the evening.

2. Breathe. Try different positions and find the one that works for you. Face up, face down, on your right side, left side, sitting upright, or propped against a wall with your knees relaxed. Tighten your core on the exhale, and liberate any tension from your shoulders, behind your head, and between your ears. 10 cycles of breathing can work wonders to reset your focus and de-clutter your stress.

3. Move!

• www.dancingalonetogether.org

I like this resource for the dance-minded individuals, as it contains links for all levels of mobility.

• www.doyogawithme.com

This is a tried and true resource if you’re looking to gain some control through your flexibility, with a compilation of multiple instructor videos of a variety of levels and lengths. (One advantage to a previously recorded video, is that if you don’t a segement, or something is too hard, just fastforward)

• https://youtu.be/SibjPw9Khz4

For a very gentle, non-impact cardio routine, this is a great short movement break you can incorporate in your mid-day slump as your mental energy starts draining and you’re tired of sitting.

4. Eat Healthy

Sometimes staying home all day is a drag, and can tempt you toward fun foods high in salt and sugar, but eating healthy foods can help your mood stabilize as well as help your body feel better.

5. Keep a Sense of Humor

Laugh! Whether it’s a funny movie, a silly article, or goofy pictures, seek out some levity to lighten your load.

Kristen Kurie, PT, DPT

This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, physical therapist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.