B-Covid Smart

Balance Resource Article. By Alyson Mandel

We are getting there! We really are. Each day brings us closer to the end of this critical (and life-saving) phase of quarantine. Each day we continue to get Stronger Together. However, while the curve is flattening, it sounds like we need to prepare for some additional weeks of social distancing. The Balance Team has put together some tips for continuing to stay strong, stay healthy and stay sane in this final push.

TIPS FOR RUNNERS/WALKERS – GET OUTSIDE

We know you are staying active running and walking together and apart. Here are some tips from some of our Balance runners and walkers about how they are keeping it “Covid safe”.

- I won’t run on Forbidden Drive anymore because it has gotten so crowded...I suggest taking a run off the beaten path...in Valley Green, head higher up into the trails and get a new perspective on the park. The higher trails are less populated. - Schuy

- Try the Green Ribbon Trails - they are less crowded. – Liz

- Schuylkill River Trail is a Covid 19 hotspot and should be avoided. Try running or biking on MLK which is wider. - Tina Smith (physician at Penn Student Health)

- An article in the NYTIMES on April 15 (and on lots of social media outlets) suggests giving yourself more than 6 feet distance when running or brisk walking with other people. Although not published yet and not looking at Coronavirus specifically, recent studies have shown that when we run, the air behind us can carry respiratory droplets for up to 15 feet. So when running or walking behind people, give yourself extra spacing.

- Take time to notice the little things - o Head over to Wyndmoor to run the neighborhood and go on a “Bear Hunt”. Many neighbors have put bears in windows for children in the neighborhood to find while out walking o Look for the Rainbow Connection...Philly has a Rainbow Hunt similar to the Bear Hunt o Take time to look at flowers blooming, leaves on trees sprouting

TIPS FOR ENGAGING FAMILY AND FRIENDS

– GET REAL Even while we are social distancing, social connections are more important than ever and there are many ways you can connect with Balance in real time with real people.

- Reach out and invite a friend to join you for a Zoom workout with a personal trainer. Zoom sessions give you the opportunity to work out with friends from all over the world! o I've been Zooming with college friends each week for a training session with Amy. We had not all been connected for years! There are 6 of us (including Amy) who are working out together (and re-connecting) while in 6 different states! We've worked out together for the last 4 weeks and plan to keep on going! We had a session today and everyone texted me immediately afterwards... here is what they said ... -Schuy

Sarah who lives in Colorado: "It is so important to stay connected during these crazy times. I'm so glad we are all connecting. Thank you!"

Karen who lives in New York: "It is wonderful to connect with everyone for amazing workouts. Love seeing everyone!"

Katy who lives in California: "Thank you for everything. What a wonderful way to start the day. Grateful to Amy for the positive energy. What a gift to so many who are staying home!"

Heather who lives in Florida: "I love the virtual workouts and I love seeing all of you!" - Get friends and family to take a group fitness class together.

I have been taking Beka’s pilates mat class with both my mom and my daughter. It is amazing to have our three generations connected (virtually) and makes me feel good to know we were all working together to stay healthy. My mom is in CT and just started taking classes and is loving them. - Alyson

- Encourage older members of your family to stay active.

We are all worrying about loved ones who are at the greatest risk of becoming sick with Covid 19. Staying active has definitely been linked to a lower risk of developing severe symptoms with Covid 19. Apparently, our muscles naturally make an important antioxidant that helps prevent disease. Cardiovascular activity, even a single session, increases the production of this important antioxidant.

Meggin’s Senior Chair Class is a great option! Tuesdays and Thursdays at 1:00pm.

▪ “Very good class ... Meggin is wonderfully encouraging and complimenting and offering ways to alter the exercises if you can’t do it the way she demonstrates.” – First Time Balance client

TIPS FOR SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITY

- Support the Philly Family Covid Fund

We are sure you have seen the articles about Josh and Melissa Haims, Balance client, who have organized a fund to help restaurants provide meals to essential workers in Philly. They have raised over $6000 and their goal is $50,000. They have provided food for workers at Philabundance, nursing homes, hospitals, shelters and more. Here is a link to learn more.

https://www.facebook.com/PhillyFamilyCOVIDFund/

- Make a meal for a shelter and drop off (no contact)

One Balance client in Wyndmoor reached out to Whosoever Gospel and they were very appreciative of her offer to provide a meal. They have a full house of 55 men. She is making it a homeschool activity with her two boys making burritos, salsa, and sliced oranges at home. She will drop off at the shelter (no contact).

- Invite a health care provider to join a Balance Zoom session with you as a thank you.

- Support Local Businesses (many have Balance connections)

Cure de Repos is offering gift cards for services and is running a limited online store with some great discounts. They will ship to your house. www.curederepos.com o Night Kitchen is taking orders by phone and pick up curbside. https://www.nightkitchenbakery.com/.

Enza Pizzeria has great pickup and delivery options. https://pizzeriaenza.com/. Enza Pizza night outside by the firepit is always a big hit in our house.

Skeem Design website is up and running and shipping. They have great Mother’s Day gifts. www.skeemshop.com o Style Camp is online and shipping for free. https://style-camp.com/ They also have great Instagram posts and regularly post information about sales and new arrivals.

Locals coffee shop is open again for takeout and online orders as of 4/24.

Jansen restaurant is offering great customized butcher boxes (great cuts of meat and you pick what you want) and essential grocery boxes. They are also offering prepared meals – this week was a Beach Boil! https://www.jansenmtairy.com/menu/.

Chestnut Hill Sports is open for orders. (215) 242-6167.

Finally, a few words from Balance Owner, Amy Carolla Balance has been able to pivot as a community with the focus on what is most important - to stay connected and together. It is what matters most. I am so proud of our community, not only have they rallied to stay together and strong, but they have been inspiration and motivation to their friends and family to join in. We now have this amazing virtual community, from all over America and in 5 different countries. We have a fabulous community that will truly come out stronger than ever.

Stay safe, Stay healthy.