There is no denying the Corona Virus has significantly altered our lives throughout the majority of 2020 with recovery looking like it might extend into 2021. While most of us have grown familiar to the recommendations enforced by the Center for Disease Control and the State of Illinois Health Department, we still felt it was important for us to publish the following tips on how to stay safe during Covid19.
Understand that at Ash Street Cooperative, we take your health and safety seriously and are doing everything we can to control the spread of the Corona virus. Even though we have created space between our members and staff to ensure everyone's safety, we want you to know that we are still here for you! The virus isn't forever, but our Ash Street family is!
How to Stay Safe & Healthy During Covid19
Wash Your Hands! Anytime you touch your face, prior to eating food or cooking, after you use the bathroom or touch any public surface, make sure to thoroughly wash for at least 20 seconds to ensure you have effectively sanitized your hands. If you can't wash them, hand-sanitize them!
Keep Your Distance! The 6' separation between individuals is for everyone's safety. Staying 6 feet away from others creates plenty of distance between you and them, minimizing the possibility of accidental touching, thereby potentially spreading the virus.
No Physical Contact! No handshakes, no hugs, and no fist bumps please. It is widely know that viruses spread due to physical contact with infected people. It's also widely known that most people who are carrying the virus have NO IDEA that they are carriers because they have no symptoms. Hugging your grandma could put her at risk. Find ways to show love without physical contact: blow them a kiss, send them a card, wave from the porch or call them on the phone. But whatever you do...don't touch them!
Get Exercise! Staying healthy during this virus pandemic isn't just about physical health. It's equally important to keep your mind healthy as well. Studies have proven the positive effects of exercise on the human brain and emotions, as well as the physical benefits of heart health, muscle tone and improved mobility. If you can, get out for a brisk walk every morning or every evening. Take in the sights and sounds of nature while unplugging your mind from the stressors of everyday life, if only for a short time.
Eat Healthy! The cells in our bodies need proper nourishment to fend off infection and disease. Give them everything they need to protect and defend you against the corona virus. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, drink 8 glasses of water per day and avoid highly processed foods. Remember the age-old saying: an apple a day keeps the doctor away! Don't forget it!
Stay Home If You Can! Not everyone has the flexibility or privilege of being able to function primarily from home, but if you can, please choose to stay home! Instead of an in-person birthday party, choose a zoom backporch bash. Instead of browsing the isles of Kohls, choose online shopping. Instead of going to the movie theater, rent a dvd to take home. There are many alternatives to going outside your home. Give some a try and stay home more often.
Following these tips as well as the full set of recommendations by the CDC and Illinois HD are the best way you can stay safe and healthy during the Covid19. We want you to come out the other end with us as healthy as ever!