During this current climate of uncertainty, anxiousness and at times confusion we must remember not to neglect our health.

It’s the one area that we can control right now, and it will play a crucial role in helping us get through all this. Remember, looking after your health doesn’t stop with just the physical aspect but also includes looking after your mental health and wellbeing.

Richard Kerrigan is a personal trainer, chef and nutrition coach. He suggests several small and simple changes you can make or put in place right now that won’t disrupt your week but will ensure you are giving yourself the best chance of staying healthy and maintaining a strong and positive state of mind.

1. Look after your mental wellbeing

You may put your kids first always, but through these difficult times, make sure you are putting time aside for yourself and your mental wellbeing, because it’s essential. Take some time out to get lost in a good book, meditate or practice some breath work techniques, go for a long walk or sit in the sun and do absolutely nothing. All of these things can help to lift your mood and improve your mindset and outlook.

2. Move with your kids first thing in the morning

I’m talking even before breakfast. Get out there, get your body moving and start your day with a positive state of mind. Teaching your kids these healthy habits will have a huge effect on them and you because if they’re healthy, you’re happy right?!

3. Prepare nutrient dense meals

While it may be a little tough to get your hands-on long-life food items right now, fresh produce is actually the area you want to be focusing on. Just because it’s fresh doesn’t mean you’ve only got a few days to eat it. Cooking nutritious soups, hearty stews, and tasty pasta sauces will all freeze really well, so spend a few hours over the weekend and start creating some delicious dishes. Get the kids involved and educate them about the importance of eating healthy food. This is how I first became interested in food and I’m forever grateful mum took the time to teach me.

4. Be mindful of your calories

You’ll have to excuse me for stating the obvious here, but we aren’t moving as much as we were before all of this started. Now more than ever, we need to ensure we are keeping an eye on the number of calories we are consuming. It can be as simple as eating a little more on the days you complete vigorous exercise and a little less on the days you don’t.

5. Workout 3-4 times a week

You can have a really great workout in just 20 minutes from the comfort of your own and with no equipment. You may want this to be some ‘you’ time but if not get the kids involved, they will love it. Bodyweight exercises can be extremely effective, and you can make the session more challenging by adding more exercises in, slowing down the speed of the exercise or reducing your rest time. Put health right at the top of your to do list, stay positive and remember to keep it simple, stay consistent, and we will get through this!

Richard Kerrigan is a PT, Chef and nutrition coach, dedicated to helping everyday Aussies find a sustainable path to living. Follow @richardkerrigan_on Instagram where he will be taking you through regular live ‘at home’ workouts, cook alongs and sharing exercise videos and mental health tips to help you stay on track from home.

How are you feeling about your health right now? Tell us in the comments below.