It’s been a wild few months, to say the least. Within the first half of 2020, our world has undergone a great deal of change. As the novel coronavirus swept the globe, many of us scrambled to prepare for whatever was ahead. Now on the brink of summer, many of us are wondering how to best keep our families healthy, happy, and thriving, no matter what the second half of the year brings.
To keep your loved ones healthy, there are a few items you should keep on you at all times, whether you’re lounging at home or headed out on a road trip after battling with cabin fever.
Below, we’ll dive into four essentials you should keep on-hand this summer, whether your plans are to stay home or head out.
- Face Masks
Many states and local governments have required the use of face coverings in public. For many, to gain entrance into stores, restaurants, bars, and the like, you’ll need to cover your mouth and nose with an appropriate face mask.
Additionally, the CDC recommends that face masks be worn by anyone who is heading out in public, as they may help prevent the spread of any airborne pathogens. While face mask inventory was depleted at the onset of the pandemic in the United States, there are now many options available – and some of them offer both function and fashion. Companies like CanvasPeople are now offering custom face masks, designed with photos or prints. If you’re going to be wearing a mask for the foreseeable future, make it something you want to wear!
- Great Nutrition
Your health is largely dependent on your gut flora, which is most significantly impacted by your daily diet. Build your strength and protect yourself and your family by eating well. Focusing on good nutrition can pay dividends in every facet of your health, but it also significantly affects your body’s immune system.
Eating the right diet is important, and helps you boost your body’s defense mechanisms in the event you are exposed to any type of virus or disease. To help keep you on track, consider investing in a recipe box service like HelloFresh that delivers fresh, delicious recipe boxes straight to your door.
- Mental Wellness
While we have yet to see the complete impact of the massive change experienced over the last few months, many health experts have expressed concerned about the mental health fallout we may witness as a result of the pandemic.
With job loss, school closures, and life as we know it stalled, it’s completely understandable that you or your family members may experience feelings of helplessness, isolation, and sadness. Fortunately, there are plenty of resources available to you to help battle the anxiety and fear that may have accompanied the outbreak. Headspace: If you’ve been interested in meditation, download the app Headspace. This cool system will help you go from meditation newbie to Zen guru (or something like that). With Sleepcasts designed to chat you to sleep, guided meditations focused on certain issues (dealing with stress, managing anxiety, and more), and sessions designed for all ages, this is a do-it-all mental health app.
- Stamps
Don’t neglect your relationships this summer. Connecting with your community is one of the best ways to keep yourself and your family safe and happy this summer, social distancing or otherwise. Reach out to family members and friends with messages of comfort. Social interaction is a great way to keep feelings of sadness at bay, so be sure to check with your loved ones on a regular basis, even if it’s virtually.
Outside of digital communication, take it old school. Sending and receiving letters is so rare these days, and therefore all the more special! Send fun, unexpected notes, sweet letters, and printed photos to family and friends. Small gestures like these can do so much for your loved ones, and it feels great to start new types of communication with people you love.
Key Takeaways
- Prep your family with essential PPE supplies if required in your area
- Keep your body strong with great nutrition
- Don’t neglect your mental health; connect with loved ones regularly
By following the above tips and stocking up on these essentials, you can make this summer a great one for your family, no matter what the next few months hold. Stay safe!
