The year 2020 has been very tough for most of Filipinos. Disasters, calamities, either man-made or natural, disrupted most of our lives, including the Taal eruption, COVID-19 pandemic, several typhoons, and flash floods, among others. All these disasters challenged the different aspects of our lives – health, education, livelihood, and even economy.
Many things happened in 2020 but beyond these challenges, we are still able to cope up. We cannot control our environment, but we can do things to make this new year better for us. For one, it is still uncertain as to when we will be living in the “new normal” brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.
This 2021, let’s strive to achieve health goals. Let’s make a better version of ourselves by having a healthy lifestyle. Here are some tips to achieve a better HEALTH:
H – Hands clean.
We are still battling against COVID-19 and the most feasible and recommended thing to do to prevent its spread is through the simple act of handwashing. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or with alcohol-based hand rub, for at least 20 seconds. Washing hands can keep you healthy and prevent the spread of respiratory and diarrheal infections. Hand hygiene is considered a primary measure for reducing the risk of transmitting viruses including COVID-19. At the same time, follow other health safety protocols recommended by Department of Health, wearing of face mask properly and observing physical distance.
E – Eat healthily.
Our health also depends on what we eat and on our food choices. Yes, it is hard to avoid empty calorie foods such as milk tea, frappe, fries, burger, samgyupsal and many more. But we can still enjoy these foods without compromising our health by having following the three basic principles of nutrition - balance, moderation, and variety on the foods we consume. Let the Pinggang Pinoy guide you in every meal!
A – Avoid sedentary lifestyle.
While eating healthily, it is also important to have physical activity. With most of us have a sedentary lifestyle, the risk of getting non-communicable diseases is high. Having an active lifestyle is beneficial not only for our physical health, but also for our improved brain health, weight management, reduction of disease, strengthening of bones and muscles, and improving our ability to do everyday activities, as well. Thus, making time for physical activity – brisk walking, jogging, dancing, or playing outdoor games for at least 30 minutes a day is recommended.
L – Limit intake of unhealthy foods.
Consumption of foods high in salt, fat and sugar increases the risk for non-communicable diseases. Remember Kumainment number 8: Hinay-hinay sa maaalat, mamantika at matatamis to prevent cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer.
T – Take your water frequently.
Getting enough water every day is important for your health. Drinking water helps our body to keep a normal temperature, lubricate and cushion joints, protect spinal cord and other sensitive tissues, and get rid of wastes through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements. Water is also the best choice if you want to maintain a normal weight. Being calorie-free, it will not cause you to gain weight unlike other beverages. For healthy adults, it is recommended to consume at least 8 glasses of water in a day. The more active you are, the more quantity you should drink.
H – Have relaxation and recreation.
Taking time for daily relaxation and recreation is also helpful to the body and mind. Taking care of our mental health is essential as taking care of our physical health. Making time to unwind and enjoy relieves stress, anxiety and improve mood.
“To keep the body in good health is a duty, otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear.” – Buddha. May this 2021 be the year to re-start and achieve our health goals. Despite of the challenges on our environment, good health may prevail for a positive and hopeful 2021. (BLVMEstrella)
References:
US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
https://www.mhanational.org/rest-relaxation-and-exercise
