For more than a year and a half we have been in the midst of a health situation that from different perspectives has gotten out of control. Not only is there the threat of a contagious virus, but we have also seen a reduction in our freedom to move around, to take our children to different places, to recreate, to exercise and to express our opinions freely.

According to statistics handled by health authorities, the pandemic has generated an increase in disorders such as anxiety, stress, mental health and in some countries suicide rates have increased. This calls us as humanity to take different alternatives to cope with these times before things get worse.

Here are 5 tips for coping with stress in times of pandemic.

• Connect with your family members (talk about it with your parents).

Sadly, the heaviness of the news information and the alternatives to contain the contagion have distanced families. Families have closed, we have stopped seeing friends, we have stopped doing activities and even worse, we have stopped seeing our grandparents.

As much as possible, visit your relatives, organize a dinner, give a hug, give a kiss, do not stop doing the things that generate family love. This is the first step to improve our mental health.

• Eat healthy (preferably organic food).

Our body’s vital energy does not depend on the medicines we take, but on the food we eat and the good sleep we get. It is already well known that a diet without or low in animal protein avoids cardiovascular risks, cleanses your blood and helps the organs to function better. Prefer a vegetarian diet that includes lots of spices, herbs, vegetables and grains.

But beware of agrochemicals in fruits and vegetables. In recent years, researchers around the world have realized that insecticides and agrochemicals may be linked to neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s, cancer and others. Prefer local organic food or food from your personal garden.

• Change the news for nature outings

Life without freedom – in confinement – is not life. Take advantage of living in a place where nature is close to you. Water, sun, bacteria, fungi, humidity and fresh air are important to calm the mind and feed the body with natural energy that consequently helps the best functioning of our organs. In addition, exercising in nature is vital. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exercising at least 30 minutes a day.

Turn off the TV, don’t be afraid and go out to be in contact with nature.

• Focus on completing projects

There is nothing better for the convulsed mind than to occupy it with something productive. Get up and program your mind with creative thoughts. Think about those projects you put aside, take them up again and start creating. This type of mental exercise will not only help you to propitiate new opportunities, it will also help you to let go of those thoughts of stress, fear or disgust for the current situation. Take it easy, but being practical and creative will bring happiness to your spirit.

• Physical exercise and meditation

Physical exercise is vital to rid the body of toxins, release endorphins, improve circulation and more. If you are not yet leading an active or healthy lifestyle, now is the time. Exercise or go for a walk at least 4 times a week and at least once a week visit nature. Your muscles need consistency and your body needs cleansing.

But don’t forget, you must exercise your mind. Just as the body needs constant exercise, so does the mind. The mind is a muscle that you must exercise. It is very easy, you just have to remain in complete silence for at least 15 minutes a day. Look towards the center of your head and concentrate on deep breathing. A half-dark, comfortable and warm room can provide a good environment for meditation. The first few days you may feel that you can’t do it, as your mind is full of everyday thoughts.

However, as you progress along this path you will feel better internally and it will be easier to remain silent. Be disciplined and you will see great results. The great sages have said that this is the most sublime feeling of the human being. Also, meditation is known to regulate the body’s organs to their optimal functioning and prevents degenerative diseases. Mental and physical exercise will make you cope better with your current situation.

Living well is more important than any material, state or economic. Tune up your body and don’t give your mind to stress.