Strategies for Personal Motivation During COVID-19

Monday, May 4th at 12 pm
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Prioritize Your Mental Health
Staying motivated can be near impossible when your mind is filled with anxieties. No work technique is going to keep you motivated when stress is unmanageable, and there is a lot to be stressed about right now. Taking care of yourself can help you to better manage your mental health during this time, so make sure you aren’t letting the basics fall through the cracks.
  • Try to move a bit each day with a walk around your block or an online exercise class.
  • Take time to eat balanced meals, and try not to work through lunch - step away from your laptop and take a lunch break.
  • Don’t stay up until two in the morning.
  • Maintain a normal sleep schedule, and aim to get at least eight hours of sleep a night.
  • Allow yourself time to enjoy TV and social media, but try to reduce how much time you spend listening to pandemic news.
  • Limit yourself to reading pandemic-related news for only a short amount of time in the morning, and then leave it alone.
  • Stay informed from reputable sources, but avoid getting wrapped up in constant news coverage that will only heighten anxiety.
Exercise Moves You Can Do Anywhere

Truck Jumps
There are several variations of the tuck jump depending on your skill level. The basics are to stand with your feet shoulder width apart and knees slightly bent. Squat slightly and jump straight up into the air, pulling your knees into your chest (or as close as you can) while wrapping your arms around them quickly and releasing on the way down.
Land with your legs slightly bent to cushion your fall. Your next rep will be right from this position. Repeat 10-20 times. The tuck jump will get your blood pumping and legs burning, but be sure to do it on a carpeted or soft area to lessen the impact on your joints.
Plank
Oh, the dreaded plank. The plank is known for being challenging, but it’s also one of the best ways to tone, strengthen, and stabilize your core. To do it properly, it’s easiest to start by getting into the push-up position. Lower your forearms to the ground with your elbows directly below your shoulders, creating a 90 degree angle. Your palms should be flat on the floor and your body should form a straight line from your head to your heels. Keeping your abs and glutes squeezed, hold the position for 30 seconds or until it really burns. If you’re just starting out and find it difficult, you can move your forearms 45 degrees and hold your hands together.
Boat Pose
The boat pose is a well-known yoga move that tackles the annoying lower belly fat or pouch. Sit with your knees bent, feet together and hands flat beside you. Slowly lean your upper body back, making sure your core is tight and straight. At the same time, extend your legs so your back and legs make a V. Palms facing in, move your arms forward towards your knees. Your lower abs and inner thighs should be contracted and your shoulders should be relaxed. Hold for 3-5 deep breaths and repeat 3 times.