​Let’s be honest … burpees are quite possibly the one exercise that makes you want to cringe and groan.  The one that makes you want to quit your workout and run out of the studio as fast as possible when you see that your instructor has added this dreaded exercise to your Circuit.
 
Growth happens outside of your comfort zone.  And burpees are the exact opposite of comfort.  Perhaps that’s what makes them seem difficult to do and so easy to hate.  But once you know the amazing benefits burpees have to offer, you may learn to hate them a little less.

1. Burpees hit different muscle groups at once.  Arms, chest, quads, glutes, hamstrings and abs – all in one exercise!  The burpee is made of movements that can increase strength, agility and balance at the same time which is perfect for a full body routine.
2. Burpees are amazing fat burners.  Your metabolism and heart rate increase rapidly by constantly moving up and down.  Such high intensity movements can burn up to 50% more calories than moderate exercise.  Research compares the effect of 30 seconds of fast burpees to a 30-second all-out sprint!
3. Burpees develop endurance.  Burpees can help to improve your muscular endurance, while the fast flow of movements can push your cardio limits at the same time.
4. Burpees make you stronger.  Since burpees are the ultimate example of functional fitness, not only can they help you meet your weight loss and fitness goals, but they can also help you perform better during everyday activities like carrying groceries, lifting items above your head or playing with your children at the playground.
5. Burpees can be done anywhere.  It doesn’t matter if you’re travelling, if you don’t have access to a gym or if you’re working outdoors – all you need is your own body to do them.

 
Whether you love or hate burpees, there’s no denying the results that they bring you.  Remember – your body can stand almost anything; it’s your mind you have to convince.
 
Need a little help to perfect your form?  Check out this video to see our Fitness Professional, Sherry Kresky, demonstrate three different burpee variations.

​It has now been a little over one month since we were able to re-open our doors to fitness classes at the studio.  It has been so great to see everyone in-person again!
 
These past few weeks, with our members back in the studio, have given us the opportunity to closely observe our new protocols in action and determine the best path forward to ensure the health and safety of our cherished Inspired community.
 
As a result, we have made the decision to REDUCE CLASS SIZE TO 10 PARTICIPANTS PER CLASS.  This further reduction in class size will allow increased physical distancing within the classroom and the ability to maintain classroom ventilation at manageable levels.  This change is effective immediately.
 
We would like to remind you of our mandatory class registration and class cancellation policy via WellnessLiving.  These studio policies are designed specifically to keep everyone as safe as possible and to minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
 
SIGN UP FOR CLASSES VIA WELLNESSLIVING.
With class size now reduced to 10 participants per class, it is imperative that you sign-up for your desired classes on WellnessLiving at least one hour before the start of the class – this will give our team the time to set up classes properly.  If you do not sign up for a class and the class is full with registered participants, you will not be able to participate.
 
CANCEL CLASSES IF YOU CANNOT MAKE IT VIA WELLNESSLIVING.
To allow as many members as possible to attend a class, we will still strictly enforce our new cancellation policy – you must cancel your class two hours prior to the beginning of class; otherwise, you will be charged a $10.00 fee.
 
DROP-INS WILL STILL BE LIMITED.
We love to welcome new participants to the studio; however, we ask that if you are planning to drop in to a class (ie., with our Free Three-Class Pass or with the Inspired ACCESS one-class pass), you let us know before you come so that we can register you.  We are still only allowing drop-ins from Perth and Huron Counties.
 
Going forward, we are committed to closely monitoring our operations and will make adjustments as necessary to ensure the continued safety of our members and staff.

​Now that many summer vacations have been cancelled due to COVID-19, you may be planning to spend some of your dark evenings in front of a bonfire in your backyard.  Marshmallows and s’mores may be the quintessential bonfire treats, but they’re not known for being exactly healthy.  While we hate to mess with these classic bonfire treats, we set out on a quest to find a healthy alternative.
 
Introducing the Bonfire Fondue…
 

• Use firm fruits that can be cut into large-sized chunks such as pineapple, peaches, apples, pears, bananas and strawberries.
• To prepare, slice fruit into chunks.  Treat apples, pears and bananas with a little lemon juice to keep them from going brown.  A drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of sugar over the fruit will caramelize when roasting and provide an even sweeter treat.  You could also spice things up a bit by using cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg or allspice.
• Skewer the fruit and roast over the open flame just like you would with a marshmallow.
• Meanwhile, warm a small bowl of dark chocolate over the fire and have it ready to dip your roasted fruit into.  (Did you know that dark chocolate is full of antioxidants which may help lower cholesterol and keep your heart healthy?)

 
Whether it’s the crackle of the flames, the fresh air or the good company, there’s something about cooking (and eating) around a campfire that makes pretty much any food taste better.  And adding a nutritious twist to bonfire cuisine doesn’t have to feel like a sacrifice with this delectable Bonfire Fondue!

​Since this fitness phenomenon launched four years ago, it’s evolved into a global fitness force.  And in order to eliminate any confusion about the program being dance-related, STRONG by Zumba has changed its name to STRONG Nation.
 
STRONG Nation is more than a workout – it’s the ultimate HIIT experience fueled by the best music and the best instructors.  At this class, you can expect to get in an effective workout that incorporates lots of different types of movements, while also focusing on strength, power and cardio segments.
 
We offer STRONG Nation classes on Wednesday evenings from 7:10 to 7:55 pm.  Come join Tish for a super fun and engaging workout that’s suitable for all fitness levels.

We are thrilled to announce that fitness classes will resume at the studio on Monday, July 20th!

The safety of our Inspired community has always been our top priority, and we are even more focused on it now.  As we now have the green light from provincial government officials to resume our fitness classes, we have made changes to how we operate – all designed to keep our members and staff safe.  Below are all the changes you can expect.  THIS IS A VERY IMPORTANT DOCUMENT – PLEASE READ IN ITS ENTIRETY!
 
Our Heightened Deep Cleaning & Disinfecting Process
 

• Top-grade disinfectant and more frequent cleaning.  Staff will use a disinfectant proven to kill viruses like COVID-19 in all common areas before and after every class, with a heightened attention to equipment and all high-touch surfaces after every class.  Professional cleaners will also be deep cleaning the studio from top to bottom three times per week.
• Disinfecting high-touch surfaces.  After every class, we will disinfect doorknobs, handles, counters, light switches, fans, sanitizing stations, benches, bathroom, sinks, toilet, change room and instructor equipment.
• All equipment disinfected.  After every class, all equipment placed out for class will be thoroughly disinfected, even if not in use.
• Staff precautions.  Staff will be required to wear gloves and face masks when setting up their classes and as the flow of members travels through the studio before and after class.  After disinfecting, they will wash their hands before refreshing gloves and masks, as needed.
• High-touch amenities.  To limit hand-to-hand contact, we are removing papers (ie., promotional materials, note paper, forms, etc.), individual protein bars, change room toiletries and complimentary phone charging.  These items will be in the office and available upon request.

 
Class Changes
 

• Reduced class length for certain classes.  Some back-to-back classes will be reduced from 45 minutes to 30 minutes in order to allow staff time to disinfect between classes.  It is our hope to return these classes to 45 minutes once it is safe to do so.  The affected classes are as follows:
  • Monday Boot Camp at 9:00 am will now run from 9:00 to 9:30 am
  • Monday Boot Camp at 5:20 pm will now run from 5:20 to 5:50 pm
  • Monday Zumba at 6:15 pm will now run from 6:15 to 6:45 pm
  • Tuesday TripleFIT at 5:20 pm will now run from 5:20 to 5:50 pm
  • Tuesday Yoga at 6:15 pm will now run from 6:15 to 6:45 pm
  • Wednesday Weights at 9:00 am will now run from 9:00 to 9:30 am
  • Wednesday Weights at 5:20 pm will now run from 5:20 to 5:50 pm
  • Wednesday TripleFIT at 6:15 pm will now run from 6:15 to 6:45 pm
  • Thursday Yoga at 9:10 am will now run from 9:10 to 9:40 am
  • Thursday Low Impact Body Blast (Zumba Light) at 10:30 am will now run from 10:50 to 11:20 am
  • Thursday Body Sculpt at 5:20 pm will now run from 5:20 to 5:50 pm
  • Thursday Bounce at 6:15 pm will now run from 6:15 to 6:45 pm
• Attendance at back-to-back classes.  If you plan to attend back-to-back classes, we ask that you use the exit and entry measures outlined below.  We understand there will be down-time for you in between classes, so we suggest you wait in your car if you are comfortable doing so.

 
Before Your Class
 

• Signing up for classes via WellnessLiving is mandatory.  Class size will be reduced to 16 participants per class; therefore, it is imperative that you sign-up for your desired classes on WellnessLiving at least one hour before the start of class – this will give our team the time to set up classes properly.  If you do not sign up for a class and the class is full with registered participants, you will not be able to participate.
• Cancel classes if you cannot make it via WellnessLiving.  To allow as many members as possible to attend a class, we will be strictly enforcing our new cancellation policy – you must cancel your class two hours prior to the beginning of class; otherwise, you will be charged a $10.00 fee.
• Drop-ins will be limited.  We love to welcome new participants to the studio; however, we ask that if you are planning to drop in to a class (ie., with our Free Three-Class Pass or with the Inspired ACCESS class pass), you let us know before you come so that you will be registered.  At this time, we will be only allowing drop-ins from Perth and Huron Counties.

 
When You Arrive
 

• Physical distancing practices.  Our staff will work to get members into the studio, while maintaining physical distancing practices.  Members are asked to enter through the front door of the building and go through the hall to the back door of the studio for entry.  To help, ground markers will indicate a safe distance throughout the hall of the building where we will require all members to wait before their class starts.  The front door of the studio will remain closed and locked at all times and no entry through that door will be permitted.
• Sanitize your hands.  Everyone entering the studio is required to sanitize their hands.  We will have hand sanitizer located at the back door of the studio, in the training room and at various convenient locations throughout the studio.
• Check-in.  Please plan to arrive at least five minutes before your class begins.  At this time, we will not allow entry beyond the start of class.
• Personal items.  We highly suggest bringing only the necessities to class.  You will be allowed to store your items in the studio during your class; however, no personal items will be allowed to stay in the studio after you leave.  The coat hooks in the front hall of the studio will not be available for use.
• Emergency change room use only.  We strongly urge you to come to class ready for your workout.  Change room use will be permitted as long as physical distancing practices can be maintained.
• Assigned personal workout spaces.  We have marked our classroom floor with physically distanced squares and staff will direct you to your workout space.  Members who arrive first will be assigned to the squares at the back of the classroom and all others will follow suit.  We ask that you remain in your square before and during your class.  Equipment needed for the class will be placed in each square by staff.
• PPE.  Members are not required to wear a face mask and/or gloves while participating in a fitness class.  We ask that you strictly observe the above practices for physical distancing and hand sanitization while at the studio.  Remember to avoid touching your hands/eyes/mouth during your workout.  When coughing/sneezing, cover your mouth with the inside of your elbow and immediately sanitize your hands.

 
During Your Class
 

• Staff hospitality and safety.  The Inspired Team is here to help, from a safe distance.  We have put a protocol in place that limits staff from closely interacting with members before, during and after class.  When absolutely necessary, staff will (safely) assist members with equipment requirements but will only do so wearing gloves and a face mask.
• Bounce class.  At this time, we will not be lending out Kangoo Jumps shoes for this class – you must have your own pair to participate in the class.  You will be responsible for properly fitting your own Kangoo Jumps shoes.  If you still need assistance, staff will demonstrate set-up from their square.
• Spin class.  You will be responsible for setting up your own bike to avoid contact with staff.  If you are a regular rider, you should already know your proper bike set-up.  If you still need assistance, staff will demonstrate set-up from their instructor bike.
• Late entries.  Once the studio door closes and class starts, we will not be able to let any members in.  Classes will always start promptly at the designated time.

 
After Your Class
 

• Sanitizing wipes.  We will continue to provide disinfectants for you to clean your equipment.  These will be placed in your square.  We ask that you disinfect your own equipment and leave it in your square along with the sanitizing wipes.  Staff will put away everything in the squares after everyone has left the classroom after disinfecting once again.
• Physical distancing practices.  Our staff will work to get members out of the studio, while maintaining physical distancing practices.  Members will be exited through the back door of the building to avoid any interaction with members arriving for the next class.
• Socializing.  To uphold physical distancing practices and to allow staff to clean, we ask that socializing be done outside of the studio.
• Studio shop.  Our apparel and supplements will still be available, but we ask that you avoid touching items as much as possible.  If you would like to make a purchase, please inform staff.
• Apparel returns.  We will not be allowing members to try on items before buying, but we will still accept returns.  If you do return an item, it will not be put back on the floor until deemed safe by apparel industry standards.

 
Member Responsibility – Keep Each Other Safe
 
We have put a lot of changes in place – with details beyond what you see here.  The way our new safety process will be most effective is if we all make sure to do our part in it!
 
Please make sure to always practice physical distancing when in shared spaces.  Follow the markers placed in the building and throughout the studio to maintain a safe distance.
 
Remember to avoid touching your hands/eyes/mouth during your workout.  When coughing/sneezing, cover your mouth with the inside of your elbow and immediately sanitize your hands.
 
If you have a cough, fever or symptoms of COVID-19, please do not come to the studio until you are symptom-free and fever-free for three consecutive days.
 
If you have tested positive for COVID-19, or have knowingly come into close contact with someone who has, we ask that you do not come to the studio for 14 days or until you have tested negative for COVID-19.
 
If you feel unwell or have any concerns about coming in for your workout, please stay home and stay safe.  If you are unable to cancel your class due to illness, we will happily waive the cancellation fee and welcome you back when you are healthy and feel comfortable coming back.
 
We are encouraging our members to limit person-to-person contact, including hugs and high-fives.  Community and love is in our DNA, but right now, this is the best way to take care of our Inspired members.
 
Always advocate for yourself.  Use your judgement to stay safe and speak to fellow members/staff if you feel your safety is compromised in any way.
 
It might be a bit overwhelming at first but trust us – as soon as you begin your warm-up, you will find yourself in that familiar place you know and love.  That sanctuary you have been needing now more than ever is even safer now, and we can’t wait to see you there!
 
Moving Forward – We Will Continue To Monitor The Situation
 
While we are taking every precaution to keep our community safe (and encourage you to do the same), we are acutely aware of and highly prepared for the possibility of a second wave.
 
In the event that there is a reported case of COVID-19 at the studio and you were potentially in contact with the individual, you will be notified immediately.  From there, we will take the necessary safety precautions to disinfect the studio from top to bottom.
 
With no way to predict what will happen, the best way we can prepare is to respond and evolve as the situation develops – with nothing but your safety in mind.
 
Always remember that we are here for you!  If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to us at info@inspiredbyfitness.ca.

​It can be hard to stay motivated during a workout, especially when you have so many other things on your mind.  But exercise can help distract you from your to-do lists and everyday anxieties – something we all could really use during the age of COVID-19.  And no great workout happens without a great playlist because musical inspiration helps to encourage you and push your fitness regimen to the next level.  The right track can take a workout from a chore to a seriously fun jam session!
 
Below are 20 of the best new workout songs for 2020 that should be added to your playlist, if they’re not already…
 

1. “Juice” by Lizzo
2. “Sucker” by Jonas Brothers
3. “MOOD 4 EVA” by Beyonce
4. “Talk Too Much” by COIN
5. “If It Feels Good (Then It Must Be)” by Leon Bridges
6. “Look At Her Now” by Selena Gomez
7. “So Am I” by Ava Max
8. “Don’t Start Now” by Dua Lipa
9. “Wanted” by OneRepublic
10. “Never Really Over” by Katy Perry
11. “Tough Love” by Aviici (featuring Agnes, Vargas & Lagola)
12. “ME!” by Taylor Swift (featuring Brandon Urie of Panic! At The Disco)
13. “Giant” by Calvin Harris & Rag’n’Bone Man
14. “Blue Monday” by Above & Beyond
15. “Oh Yeah!” by Green Day
16. “Cold Feet” by Loud Luxury
17. “Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd
18. “Stupid Love” by Lady Gaga
19. “Higher Love” by Kygo (featuring Whitney Houston)
20. “Cold Little Heart” by Michael Kiwanuka

 
What’s your favourite workout song?  Tell us in the comments and we’ll add some of your favourite tunes to our studio playlist.

​We are excited to announce that in-studio Personal and Small Group Training sessions will resume as of Friday, June 12th, 2020!  As part of Phase 2 of the Government of Ontario’s Action Plan for Reopening our Province, we have been given the green light for this service as part of Personal Services.
 
PLEASE NOTE FITNESS CLASSES WILL NOT RESUME AT THIS TIME!  We anticipate that classes will be able to resume in Phase 3 of the Action Plan and will keep you posted as to when we will be able to offer our classes once again.
 
Following proper health and safety protocols, things will look a little different for a while.  Here’s what to expect…

• Enter through the front door of the building and follow the physical distancing markers to the back door of the studio.
• Stop at the back door of the studio and wait for trainer assistance.  (You can always text or call your trainer to let them know you have arrived if they are not readily available.)
• Your trainer will greet you at the back door wearing a fresh face mask and gloves.
• Enter through the back door and sanitize your hands with the provided hand sanitizer.
• Follow the physical distancing markers throughout the studio, always maintaining a 6-foot distance between you and your trainer.
• You may place any personal belongings in a designated space within the studio, and we highly suggest you only bring the necessities to your session.  No personal items will be allowed to stay in the studio after you leave.  The coat hooks in the front hall of the building will not be available for use.
• We strongly urge you to come to your session ready for your workout.  Change room use will be permitted as long as physical distancing practices can be maintained.
• Your trainer will guide you to the space that will be used for your workout.
• After your session, your trainer will guide you through the back door of the studio, and you are asked to exit the building through the back door using the physical distancing markers.

 
We have implemented a heightened deep cleaning and disinfecting process, as follows:

• Top-grade disinfectant and more frequent cleaning.  Your trainer will use a disinfectant proven to kill viruses like COVID-19 in all common areas before and after every session, with a heightened attention to equipment and all high-touch surfaces after every session.  Professional cleaners will also be deep cleaning the studio from top to bottom three times per week.
• Disinfecting high-touch surfaces.  After every session, your trainer will disinfect doorknobs, handles, counters, light switches, fans, sanitizing stations, benches, bathrooms, sinks, toilets and trainer equipment.
• All equipment disinfected.  After every session, all equipment placed out for your session will be thoroughly disinfected, even if not in use.
• Staff precautions.  Your trainer will be required to wear gloves and a face mask when setting up the session and as you travel through the studio before and after your session.  After disinfecting, your trainer will wash their hands before refreshing gloves and masks, as needed.
• High-touch amenities.  To limit hand-to-hand contact, we are removing papers (ie., promotional materials, note paper, forms, etc.), individual protein bars, change room toiletries and complimentary phone charging.  These items will be in the office and available upon request.

 
We have put a lot of changes in place – with details beyond what you see here.  The way our new safety process will be most effective is if we all make sure to do our part in it!
 
Please make sure to always practice physical distancing when in shared spaces.  Follow the markers placed in the building and throughout the studio to maintain a safe distance.
 
Remember to avoid touching your hands/eyes/mouth during your workout.  When coughing/sneezing, cover your mouth with the inside of your elbow and immediately sanitize your hands.
 
If you have a cough, fever or symptoms of COVID-19, please do not come to the studio until you are symptom-free and fever-free for three consecutive days.
 
If you have tested positive for COVID-19, or have knowingly come into close contact with someone who has, we ask that you do not come to the studio for 14 days or until you have tested negative for COVID-19.
 
If you feel unwell or have any concerns about coming in for your workout, please stay home and stay safe.
 
Always advocate for yourself.  Use your judgement to stay safe and speak to your trainer if you feel your safety is compromised in any way.
 
It might be a bit overwhelming at first but trust us – as soon as you begin your warm-up, you will find yourself in that familiar place you know and love.  That sanctuary you have been needing now more than ever is even safer now, and we can’t wait to see you there!

​Many of us have now become adept at social distancing, washing our hands regularly, sanitizing our surroundings and using Zoom to stay in touch with family and friends.  However, the stress of isolation and the fear of the unknown has left many of us anxious, socially isolated or just plain bored.  There’s no denying that our lives have been turned upside down.
 
It is all too tempting during the coronavirus crisis to seek relief by overeating resulting in the “Quarantine 15” which is a 15-pound weight gain during self-isolation.  However, we must try to remember that a healthy diet is particularly important right now.  Overeating can have a temporary calming effect – but temporary is the key word.  Without managing your eating habits during times of stress, you are more likely to put on unwanted weight.  Furthermore, nutritious foods can have a positive impact on your sleep, mood, energy level and immune system.
 
Here are a few ways to stave off the Quarantine 15 with a healthy diet:

• Create an eating pattern where you have a meal or snack about every three hours.  This can help prevent mindless snacking.
• Keep a food journal.  Track the time of day, the food and the amount to hold yourself accountable.
• Limit snacking of highly processed foods such as chips and cookies.  If you don’t buy it, you can’t eat it.
• Portion out your snacks.  Place cheese and crackers, for example, in individual containers to prevent overeating.
• Drink at least eight cups of water each day to stay hydrated and keep your body’s systems functioning normally.  Consider adding things like mint, cucumber, lemon or ginger.  Avoid sugary beverages.
• Practice mindful eating.  Ask yourself, “Why am I reaching for this?” or “Has it been three hours since my last meal or snack?”
• Stay active.  Stream one of our Inspired To-Go online fitness classes.  Endorphins are released after exercise which can trigger a positive feeling in your body.
• Call or FaceTime a friend or family member to talk about your emotions.  Getting your feelings out can help curb emotional eating.
• Buy food that comes from the earth like fresh fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains and lean protein.

 
Good nutrition is the foundation for a healthy immune system.  With some careful planning, it is absolutely possible to maintain a healthy diet while being quarantined.  If you need some extra help dialing in your nutrition, you can always contact our Certified Precision Nutritionist for a private consultation.

We know that many of you are anxious to return to our beloved studio to continue on your fitness journey while enjoying the friendship of our Inspired community.  We can’t wait to welcome you back with open arms (physically distanced, of course)!  Like you, we are waiting for the confirmation of an official date issued by the Government of Ontario.  During this pause, we have been actively working to do everything in our power to ensure the safety of our members and staff.  For the wellbeing of everyone, new measures will be added at the studio in order to respect the government’s recommendations on hygiene, disinfection and physical distancing.  Everything will be communicated to you as soon as a reopening date is determined.
 
One new process we are able to share with you now is regarding mandatory class registrations and class cancellations via WellnessLiving.  These new studio policies are designed specifically to keep everyone as safe as possible and to minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
 
SIGN UP FOR CLASSES VIA WELLNESSLIVING.
Class size will be reduced to maintain physical distancing; therefore, it is imperative that you sign-up for your desired classes on WellnessLiving at least one hour before the start of class – this will give our team the time to set up classes properly.  If you do not sign up for a class and the class is full with registered participants, you will not be able to participate.
 
CANCEL CLASSES IF YOU CANNOT MAKE IT VIA WELLNESSLIVING.
To allow as many members as possible to attend a class, we will be strictly enforcing our new cancellation policy – you must cancel your class two hours prior to the beginning of class; otherwise, you will be charged a $10.00 fee.
 
DROP-INS WILL BE LIMITED.
We love to welcome new participants to the studio; however, we ask that if you are planning to drop in to a class (ie., with our Free Three-Class Pass or with the Inspired ACCESS class pass), you let us know before you come so that you will be registered.
 
If you have not already set up your WellnessLiving account, now is the time to do so!  All registered members and pass holders can access their account in the following ways:

1. On a PC or laptop.  Click HERE to navigate to our WellnessLiving site and sign-in with your credentials.
2. Through our website.  Click HERE to navigate to our website and click on the green BOOK NOW button beside the class(es) you want to register for.
3. Through Facebook.  Click HERE to navigate to our Facebook page and click on the blue BOOK NOW button in the top right corner of the page.
4. Use our cool Achieve app.  For those who like the convenience of an app at their fingertips, our custom Inspired by Fitness Achieve app is the way to go!  Available for iOS and Android users, just search for “Inspired by Fitness” in the Apple App Store or Google Play, download it and book your classes on the go.
5. Contact us for help.  Send an email to info@inspiredbyfitness.ca and let us help you set up your own WellnessLiving profile.

 
While waiting to see you again at the studio, we invite you to continue your training at home via the content available on our Facebook page and YouTube channel.  To date, we have shared over 50 free online workouts to help keep you moving, motivated and on track with your fitness routine.

​Many people are struggling with positive thinking, mental health and their sense of well-being during the coronavirus outbreak.  The stress of COVID-19 isolation, combined with the uncertainty of the situation and economic instability, is leaving us anxious and unsure.  But did you know there are actually scientific studies on the effect of staying positive related to stress levels?
 
Staying positive can change your brain chemistry, improve your problem-solving abilities and even increase the body’s immunity.  Taking control of your mental health can help you find a sense of inner balance and keep you as calm as possible as we continue to tackle this period of uncertainty.
 
Below are a few ideas to foster positive emotions…

• Strengthen your personal connections.  Bake with your kids; bring out the board games for family game night; do a workout with your friends via Zoom.  Any sort of quality time with others is sure to bring about positivity.
• Enjoy the little things.  Turn your brain off autopilot to enjoy your first coffee in the morning; take a walk outside and breathe in the fresh air.  Any small victory will make you feel more positive.
• Look for the good in others.  Philanthropists are donating money to scientific research; medical staff are working overtime to help sick patients; neighbours are taking care of one another.  We are united in hope when we focus on these positive aspects of the crisis.
• Limit your media intake.  It’s easy to get wrapped up in the constant vortex of unsettling news.  Choose a single news source and decide how much time you will spend with it each day, then stick to your plan.  You will be well-informed while maintaining a sense of calm.
• Take a daily inventory.  Close every day with a positive acknowledgement of something you accomplished, learned or are grateful for.  It will help dilute some of the negativity you’ve absorbed and remind you that not everything that’s happening right now is bad or depressing.

 
There is no denying that the world is spinning right now, but that doesn’t mean that your well-being has to sling out of control.  Be deliberate in activities that are positive, heartwarming, stress reducing and laughter inducing.  Together, we’ll get through this!