How to Stay Healthy

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused uncertainty and scare in quite a few. In times like this, everyone forgets their true spirit and let panic get the best of them. Here are a few tips to help you and your student go the extra mile when staying healthy.

Some ways to stay healthy include, but are not limited to…

· Washing your hands frequently. This means anytime you are in public, cough or sneeze (please be sure to cover your mouth when you do), before you eat, touch a doorknob, handle money, and much more. The average person touches their face a minimum of three times per hour. We might not know everything about the coronavirus yet, but this is an easy precaution to take in order to be sure.

· Social distancing. Social distance yourself from others 6 feet away to try not to spread the virus. It could be possible that people sick around you are in the incubating period or vice versa. The last thing you want is to be in a crowded area and unintentionally get the virus.

· Take vitamins to help your immune system stay strong. If you are starting to feel under the weather, or want a head start to being healthy, try taking vitamin C or eating it through oranges or bell peppers. Vitamin E helps your body fight off infections and you could always take multivitamins to make sure everything is covered. Zinc also helps shorten colds and if you have a sore throat try throat lozenges. Just remember not to overdo the recommended dose and always consult a doctor if you are unsure.

· Eat superfoods such as dark leafy greens, and fruit with high antioxidants like berries. Avocados, nuts, and seafood are amongst other healthy foods as well. Avoid junk food, alcohol, or nicotine that can weaken the immune system. Don’t eat off the same spoon or fork as anyone for extra security.

· Exercise. This might seem like a tough one to accomplish when needing to quarantine but you can easily get creative! Walk around your house or neighborhood – just social distance from others if you see them – if you have a backyard take a sprint around the house a couple of times. Watch an at-home yoga video, plenty of companies, such as Fuel Hot Yoga, are offering classes still taught by their normal yoga instructors online. Even being slightly active is better than not being active at all and will help you feel better.

Remember, this is a tough time for everyone so help out each other. Be mindful when buying paper towels and toilet paper to only a pack so others can buy some if they need it too. If you are going to the store and have elderly neighbors, ask them if they want you to pick up anything and leave it on their doorstep so no one comes into contact. Be respectful towards others personal spaces and help support local businesses who really are struggling with the changes. Most importantly Parents of Ole Miss Students wants everyone to be safe and healthy! Enjoy this time with family and we can’t wait to all come together in the future.