Madison Senior Center

These anxious, inexperienced times can bring an immense amount of unwanted stress and negativity into our lives. However, the most important thing to do in this situation is to remain positive. Studies show that people who had more positive emotions when diagnosed with the influenza virus were more likely to fight off symptoms. Along with this, positive emotions allow for lower levels of chemicals that are associated with inflammation related to stress and are known for boosting our judgment, expanding our creativity and increasing our ability to solve problems. The benefits for remaining positive throughout this time are significant and can be greatly attributed to your health and happiness.
Tips:
1. Understand that all news you read on the internet or see on television may not be completely true. Do your research, and do not let false information scare you in any way. Instead of dwelling on this type of information, watch or read something else!
2. Take care of your mental and physical health. Your mental health comes before anything else, and it is important that you do your best to stay inside, keep connections with loved ones, and take some time to relax. See the good in the world. Take this as a chance to clear your mind, set some goals, and get back on track. Continue to eat a balanced diet, get plenty of sleep, and exercise regularly if possible.
3. For those of you in lockdown, see this time as an opportunity. Pick up a new hobby, get some spring cleaning done, or spend quality time with yourself or loved ones. I know it may feel like the world is stopping a bit but take this as the opportunity to do something you have never gotten around to but have always wanted to do. You will thank yourself later!
It is extremely easy to worry about things that are happening in the world today. This stress does nothing but harm your health in a variety of different ways. Take a deep breath, focus on yourself, and avoid panicking. Remember, we are all in this together!