Published May 2020
In this time of social distancing, it can be challenging to find ways to stay healthy in mind, body and spirit. Especially since many of the activities we usually turn to for physical and mental well-being involve social interaction, from going to the gym to grabbing a smoothie at the local juice bar to meeting up with friends for dinner. But there are ways we can all still focus on health, wellness and self-care during these uncertain times. Starting by taking this challenging moment and turning it into a fun challenge – one that can help you stay active, eat well, lower your anxiety levels and gain a healthy mindset.
Take one or all of these challenges and keep track with our well-being Bingo boards.
How to play:
- Save: Save a board to your device:
- If on desktop, right-click the image to save.
- If on mobile, either hold your finger down to save the image or screenshot and crop.
- On either device, you can also click the “download” link below each board to be taken to a page with just the image, ready to save or print.
- Start: Finish as many as you can in a week for each board, marking each off either on your social profile or on your own.
- Share: Share them with your friends on social – and tag them so they can join in – for a great way to stay healthy and connected!
- Sticker: If you’re using Instagram Stories to share your board, find our HaPi Bingo stickers by searching #HaPi in Stickers.
We would love to join in as you complete your challenges. Tag Harvard Pilgrim Health Care when you post your board and we’ll share on our channels!
Stay active. Stay safe.
With fitness studios and gyms temporarily closing their doors, and social distancing a must, it is requiring a bit more creativity to get the exercise you need. However, exercise has been proven to boost your mood and improve your immune system—benefits that everyone could use right now.
If you plan on keeping your routine simple and walking or running outdoors, maintain distance from others and touch as few things as possible (no tricep dips on those park benches!). Some experts recommend doubling your distance, so consider working out in less-populated areas or during off-times of the day. If you’re one of the many working from home, try sneaking in some additional movement by walking during meetings or creating a standing desk, such as a kitchen counter.
Fitness can also be a great way to connect with friends and family virtually – share ideas, or hold each other accountable for trying new things. Join an online class together, such as Harvard Pilgrim’s free yoga or Zumba sessions, or challenge your friends to join you in a game of Exercise Bingo.
To download the Exercise Bingo board, click here.
Eat well. Shop smart.
Grocery store supply can be unpredictable. Many are unfamiliar with cooking every meal at home, and it’s easy to simply snack throughout the day—especially on comfort foods — during this stressful time. Yet eating right offers a number of surprising benefits, from improving mental health and immunity to helping you save money. It’s also a great opportunity to teach kids about healthy eating and cooking.
Take on some easy challenges together, such as eating every color of the rainbow with produce, incorporating a plant-based meal for “meatless Monday,” swapping a favorite (easy) recipe, trying a week without processed food, or playing with this Nutrition Bingo board.
To download the Nutrition Bingo board, click here.
Manage stress. Stay connected.
To manage stress and anxiety, the CDC has a number of helpful tips. Try practicing deep breathing, stretching, and meditation. Registering for online resources such as mindfulness sessions can help, too. Your body also has a big impact on your mind; eating healthy, balanced meals and exercising regularly can make a difference, as well as limiting alcohol intake and avoiding drugs. While it’s important to stay informed, you may also benefit from taking breaks from the news and social media. Make time to relax with some of your favorite activities, and talk often and openly with those who you trust. You can even talk to a mental health professional from home via telemedicine. You can combat isolation by staying connected with family, friends, coworkers, and other community members virtually.
Check out our Mindful Bingo game to improve your mindfulness by challenging friends.
To download the Nutrition Bingo board, click here.
Harvard Pilgrim’s well-being programs are here for you when you need them the most. The Living Well at Home virtual offerings include live mini meditation sessions and webinars that cover topics from working well at home to how to get a better night’s sleep. All are available at no cost to you – even if you’re not a Harvard Pilgrim member.
To confirm eligibility for any programs or services mentioned in this article as it relates to your specific health plan, please reach out to your account executive or HR benefits team. You may also speak to our member services team at (888)-333-4742 or by sending a secure email. And for plan details and other member resources, log in to the member portal.