Going the distance: health and wellness advice for the vaccinated
When the COVID-19 vaccines were made available to the public, the idea was that they would provide a means to return to normal. Sadly, that isn’t the case. Although getting a vaccine increases your level of protection from severe and fatal consequences from the coronavirus, it’s not the end all be all.
Author:Karan EmeryReviewer:Daniel JamesSep 30, 202128K Shares904.8K Views When the COVID-19 vaccines were made available to the public, the idea was that they would provide a means to return to normal. Sadly, that isn’t the case. Although getting a vaccine increases your level of protection from severe and fatal consequences from the coronavirus, it’s not the end all be all. External factors ranging from more robust strains to citizens not continuing to take precautions could, consequently, result in the pandemic (and the need to protect yourself) continuing for years.
Vaccinated citizens need to remain vigilant in protecting themselves and others as the nation continues to battle this health crisis. Below are a few suggestions on health and wellness steps to consider.
At the start of the pandemic, health experts and political leaders provided three essential safety measures to reduce your risks. The first suggestion was wearing masks in public places. The second was to stay at least six feet away from others. Finally, ensure that you’re washing or sanitizing your hands regularly. While you may have thought these practices were no longer a priority, that is far from true. The delta virus is much more dangerous and can still have an adverse effect on vaccinated individuals.
The vaccine may help your body learn how to fight the coronavirus, but it isn’t foolproof. As the virus continues to mutate, there’s a significant need for citizens to strengthen their immune systems. A strong immune system coupled with vaccines and booster shots will dramatically reduce your chances of contracting the virus or suffering from severe symptoms.
Eliminate processed, sugary, and fattening foods and introduce immune-boosting foods into your diet for improved nutrition. Take weekly fitness classesat a gym to improve your physical and emotional integrity. Lastly, manage any existing health problems you have by following the doctor’s orders, taking your medications, and making any necessary lifestyle changes. The past year has been emotionally debilitating for a lot of people. Transitioning to a “new normal” as a means to safeguard yourself and others from an invisible threat was a challenging adjustment. People have reported suffering from overwhelming feelings due to financial woes, social isolation, fear, anxiety, depression, and more. Unfortunately, as everyday life continues to change with the times, these feelings won’t go away on their own. If you’re emotionally overwhelmed, get help. There’s nothing wrong with consulting with a therapist about your unresolved struggles. A therapist can help you pinpoint triggers, find new perspectives, gain insight, and learn methods to cope when life is complicated. These solutions will ultimately help you to continue navigating these unprecedented times and keep your health and wellness intact. Whether you talk to a therapist, religious leader, mentor, or join a support group, surrounding yourself with positive, like-minded people can help you preserve despite the challenges that may or may not lie ahead.
Although these are scary times to live in, that doesn’t mean you should hide in your house and fret, waiting until the day things go back to the way they were. Believe it or not, life as you once knew it is likely never to return. As such, you must learn how to live and enjoy life every day. Reconnect with loved ones, participate in activities you enjoy (within reason), invest in your future, continue making changes for the better, and find things to appreciate even when the world seems to be upside down.
It’s unfortunate that the development of the COVID-19 vaccinesdid not mean complete vindication and return to normalcy for the nation. Be that as it may, the vaccines provide a solid level of protection that relieves many stresses resulting from this health crisis. As you figure out how to navigate the constant changes of everyday life, do yourself and others a favor and remember the health and wellness advice listed above.