WELLNESS
KEEPING IT TOGETHER IN THE MIDST
OF UNCERTAINTY By Jane Riley
We like to feel that we have a certain amount of control over our lives and that we can live with a fairly clear notion of how our day will unfold.These past few months have shaken that view and we are learning a new reality. Here are some tried-and-true methods of coping healthily that will assist you in making it through this, physically and mentally intact. STAY ACTIVE This cannot be overstated. Being physically active is always important, but in times of stress and uncertainty, getting out (or staying in) to exercise provides a release of the build-up of the stress hormone cortisol and a flow of “feel good” hormones (endogenous endorphins) that will help you relax. One of the many benefits of exercise is that it causes you to breathe more deeply. Deep breathing, whether as a result of exercise or of mindfulness, results in better cognition, increased relaxation and less acidity and CO2 in your bloodstream which leads to less perceived stress. You can keep your fitness level up by taking part in The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch online Zoom Fitness Classes, online Personal Fitness Training or using other outdoor fitness and recreational activities that the Club has to offer. Using the online portal means you don’t have to worry about social distancing or decontamination of your equipment because you never leave your home. And, importantly, the online access provides the social interaction that we as social creatures need to stay healthy. The fitness experts at the Club offer stretch classes, senior fitness classes, complete core classes, mat Pilates, yoga, sets and reps, Barre, ELDOA and special seminars as well as an opportunity to simply meet together online to exchange ideas and tips to help each other. You can find a complete fitness calendar online in
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your member portal under the Spa and Fitness tab or listed in the Club Calendar. For outside activity, the Fitness Center offers a cycling through the neighborhood class in the early morning and the Golf, Tennis, Outfitter and River Clubs remain open for outdoor activity with the proviso that social distancing, limited numbers and strict disinfection rules are observed. Walking and hiking through the beautiful Cordillera Ranch property are other recommended healthy pursuits. The fresh air, sunshine and activity will help you sleep better and that is vital to keeping you strong.
PROPER NUTRITION Healthy eating is an issue that is forefront in these times of noted food shortages. Do your best to consume as much fresh produce as you can. The B vitamins that you receive from green leafy veggies will help you combat stress and bolster your immune system. In this context, you might consider putting in a little garden to ensure a supply of fresh leafy greens over the next few months, or growing micro-greens in your kitchen which you can do anytime. Also safeguard your health by getting adequate vitamins and minerals through a good multi-vitamin. I am available for online nutritional consultations to help you make effective mealtime plans. Get a good stock of pantry basics that you know will keep over the next few months so that if the food supply chain becomes less reliable, you will have options. You may need to get a little creative in your meal plans, but that’s okay. No one is coming over for dinner, and we can joke about how we lived out of cans and packages afterwards if need be. For the time being, there are still other opportunities to feed yourself well. The Fit Menu at the Club is available for take-out and it features selections that are specifically designed to be nourishing and delicious. Stay hydrated by drinking at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day. Try to limit your intake of al-
