As a medical Nutritionist Dietitian, I rarely have downtime during the pandemic. I still go to work amidst this overwhelming situation. I must admit that it can get quite stressful and I realize the need for me to take care of myself even more.

Other than washing our hands regularly and disinfecting everything we touch; I would like to share 5 more ways that can help you take better care of yourself during these extraordinary times.

#1. STAY ACTIVE

We all know that exercise is good for both physical and mental health. There are different types of workouts you can do at home (thanks to the power of social media, they are just a click away!).

High Knees

Prisoner Squats

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Indoor Cycling/Spinning Bike

I could not stress enough how exercise and proper nutrition work hand in hand for the best possible results. So check out my favorite 5-ingredient potato recipe. What I love about this dish is that I can just mix everything all up and pop them in the oven while I do other things like doing my daily exercise, for instance. Because staying active also means multi-tasking!

Potatoes are perfect as pre, during and post-workout snack or meal because they are more energy-packed than any other popular vegetable. A medium (5.3 oz) potato has 3 grams of protein. A key component of muscle, protein is an important nutrient for athletic performance. #PotatoPower

#2. MAKE HOME-MADE MEALS

Good nutrition should always be at the top of your family’s priority list. During stressful times, there’s nothing better than a home cooked meal – especially if you made it yourself! You could ask family members or friends for recipes, or you my check out Potato Goodness. Here you’ll find hundreds of yummy, simple and healthy recipes.

Yes, it’s challenging to get all the ingredients you need at the moment. But it’s totally fine to make things simple. Just make sure you plan and strategize your menu so that you can maximize the use of your available ingredients. Always include whole foods like potatoes, nuts, lean cut meat, vegetables, and fruits. They are packed with essential vitamins and minerals that your body needs.

#3 DECLUTTER FOR A FEW MINUTES A DAY

I’m not saying you clear out everything from top to bottom, but using a few minutes of your day to help clean the house is one inspiring way to spend your time during quarantine. Maybe you can start with your study table, then your closet, and perhaps move over to the pantry. Before you know it, your house is sparkling clean and free of clutter! #adulting

#4 CREATE AND LISTEN TO A MUSIC PLAYLIST

You may have been feeling swamped with all the news regarding the coronavirus. It is important to stay informed, but I think we all need to take a break from time to time. Go ahead and create your own music playlist with all your favorite songs. It can be a playlist that relaxes your mind and soul. A playlist that will help you focus while you work-from-home. Or maybe a playlist when you just want to have fun and feel happy! Ask your friends for their best picks.

(My music buddy: Spotify)

#5 DO A NIGHT SKIN CARE ROUTINE

Part of the self-care I highly recommend is to make time for a skin care routine before bed time. This can actually help you sleep better and feel better the next day. You may want to start by washing your face with mild soap, then gently exfoliate your skin. Afterwards, apply soothing facial toner and light moisturizer. Oh, don’t forget to drink water regularly. Aside from hydrating our body, water flushes out toxins, which in turn helps our skin glow. So yeah, drinking water should be part of your skin care routine!