COVID-19: Caring for your mental health |20 March 2020

Photo source: Yoga Basics

The news about the outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19) has brought with it a lot of understandable concern, and for some it is having a very negative impact on mental health.

Approaching this matter is Antigone Frichot, a local yoga teacher, who shares her top tips with the local population for protecting our mental health through some simple but effective techniques.

Ms Frichot trained in India as a yoga teacher and has taught in both the eastern and western parts of the world, before returning home to Seychelles to share her practice with the local community.

1. Eat well!

Load up your meals with fruits and vegetables to keep your immune function AND your mood high. Studies show that eating fruits and vegetables boost your happiness as well as essential vitamins and minerals.

2. Move your body

To maintain a healthy body and a calm mind, movement is essential. Even just a short walk every day will help to clear your mind and help to reduce stress and anxiety.

Below are my favourite restorative poses for dropping into your zen. The body often cools down quickly in restorative poses so keep a blanket and/or a pair of socks nearby!

Child's pose

This pose centres and calms the mind while also giving a gentle stretch through the hips, thighs and ankles. Use a bolster between the legs and under your head for a more relaxing version.

Reclined Bound Angle Pose

Deeply relaxing, this pose can be held for up to a few minutes and also stretches your hips while allowing the abdominal muscles to relax.

Reclining Twist

This is a great pose for those of us who sit at a desk all day. It helps to lengthen, relax and realign the spine as well as massaging the abdominal organs.

Legs-up-the-wall Pose

Super relaxing and super easy! This pose helps to promote drainage from excess fluid build-up and facilitates circulation. Combines with controlled breathing, it can help to lower your heart rate, boosting your relaxation response. Perfect before bed time!

3. Get out in nature

Nature is so soothing. We are so lucky to be surrounded by wonderful jungles and beautiful beaches. Get outside! Breathe in the fresh air and clear your thoughts.

4. Breathe

But REALLY breathe; deep long breaths help to calm the nervous system. Aim to inhale for 3 seconds and exhale for 6 seconds. Long exhalations signal a state of relaxation in the body.

5. Pamper yourself

Do things that help you relax and unwind. Run yourself a bath, light some candles, give yourself a foot massage. Self-care plays an important role in how we feel about ourselves. Treat yourself well.

Compiled by F.P.