Mental and Physical Wellbeing

As we all practice social distancing in order to ‘flatten the curve’ of the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve put together recommendations for you to safely stay physically active and mentally healthy.


Remember that Zoom is available to you to connect with the Harvard community remotely.

Managing Fears and Anxiety around the Coronavirus (COVID-19)

As information about Coronavirus unfolds and response plans are implemented, there can be a wide range of thoughts, feelings and reactions. Counseling and Mental Health Services (CAMHS) created a guide that contains coping strategies and resources to help you get through this challenging time.

Download guide from CAMHS

 

Mental Health

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Try various meditation and anxiety reduction apps online: Headspace, Calm, TenPercent

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Create a call list of folks in your life that you’ll talk to regularly during this period

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Join and participate in online communities of your clubs, friend-groups, entry-way-mates, family, and classmates. 

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If you're on campus, talk to someone face-to-face (6 feet apart!) in your building or as you pick up your meals

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Share a meal or coffee virtually with someone

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Play with a pet (or borrow one if you can)

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[re]Connect with your community of faith and with your spiritual practices

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Create a daily routine and build downtime into your schedule

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Take regular breaks from the news and social media

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Learn something new!  Check out free resources for knitting and learning languages.  

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Visit museums and national parks virtually

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Play online games with others ( Words With Friends, FreeRice)

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Start a Book group - choose a book for shared reading and meet over Zoom to discuss it

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Netflix has a Chrome extension called Netflix Party, it allows someone to set up a watch party, get a link, and invite friends. It has a built in live text chat.

Movement and Physical Health

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Go for a walk or run with fewer than 4 friends, staying 6 feet away from each other

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Walk or run up and down nearby stairs. You could try the stairs in a local park, building, or your home if you have them.

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Exercise in your room. Get started with this list of free workouts from the Huffington Post!

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Put on your favorite music and dance!

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Take a break for yoga or light stretching

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Harvard Recreation has granted access to Wellbeats to all members access to the online platform. 

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Get up from your workstation for 5-10 minutes every hour

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Make sure to eat regularly, choose a variety of foods when possible, and stay hydrated.

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