3. Take an online low impact fitness class
Release those feel-good endorphins from exercising while social distancing. Taking a class with other at set times can help bring back a sense of routine and social comradery. Or take a fitness class specifically designed for pregnant women, such as this one by Knocked-Up Fitness by Erica Ziel.
4. Take a brisk walk outside
If you live in the country, can you take a moment to get away from technology and take a quiet walk outside in nature? Soak in the calming effects of nature while getting your body moving. If you live in a busier neighbourhood, are there certain times of day when there are fewer people outside? You can take advantage of this especially if you are an early morning or late-night person.
5. Set goals
While this last suggestion isn’t a form of exercise, it can potentially help you stay mentally healthier and happier.
Since we are all staying indoors a lot more, it is easy to lose track of time and let the days slip by, leading to both low mood and low energy.
Setting exercise goals can give you something to work toward and look forward to each day. Even better, write down your goals and set up a habit tracker to help build a sense of routine and provide a sense of accomplishment.
Remember to stay hydrated and not to push yourself too hard. If you are usually a more sedentary person, start with mild to moderate exercises, such as gentle stretches. If you are unsure, give your doctor a call. Do not start a new exercise program or a routine more strenuous than what you are used to before speaking with and getting the green light from your doctor first.
Dr. Dawn Kingston, Canada’s leading expert on perinatal mental health and for over ten years, has been at the forefront of research on how to prevent postpartum depression. Her team has developed the HOPE App which is designed to significantly reduce prenatal anxiety and depression and directly support expectant mothers. They are studying it in a massive implementation study, one of the most ambitious projects of this type ever!
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