Every day has the potential to be an adventure and these days we find ourselves in the middle of a true adventure. Every one of us has decisions to make. We need to weigh risk and benefit for all our activities – grocery shopping, family visits, lunch dates and more.

Some of us find ourselves in a position to make decisions for the benefit others. For instance, local hospital administrators must care for their patients, employees and visitors. We shouldn’t envy them their challenge. It is unlikely they will make everyone (perhaps even anyone) happy.

There is plenty of expert information. Sometimes experts forget that most of us aren’t microbiologists. Without their basic understanding regarding the behavior of germs (including viruses), their comments can be distressing. While virus behavior can’t always be predicted, we know the coronavirus (COVID-19) will succumb to most over the counter soaps and disinfectants. That’s good news. And, although the vast majority of the population has no established immunity (resistance) to COVID-19, most of us will be able to withstand the illness without consequence.

There are exceptions. People older than 70 or with existing illnesses like asthma or any other lung illness, heart disease, diabetes, etc., should be extremely careful. The same for people who smoke. The rest of us can think about how we can help them. Delivering groceries or picking up prescriptions is one offer we can make.

Here’s something important to consider. Our immune system, the part of us that prevents illness and makes it less serious if we become ill, is ‘pumped up’ when we are physically active. We should all find ways to keep moving. Going outside is perfectly safe.

Immune systems work best if we’re happy, too. And most of us are happy in the company of people we care about. If you shouldn’t go out or have guests, find other ways to connect. Use the phone, Zoom, Facetime or other electronic communication to stay in touch with friends and relatives. If video communication is a new idea, ask someone to help you figure it out. Once you do it a few times it will be easy. Personal interactions with people you care for and who care for you is essential when we are practicing ‘social distancing’. It will help us <em>all</em> resist infection if we demonstrate care and experience being cared for. You can also try laughing out loud – at something or nothing at all.

Of course, we’ll feel better if we limit exposure to sensationalizing television, as hard as it to look away, sometimes.

Lastly, wash your hands, everyone. Twenty seconds each time.

Take good care.

Your friends from 5 Healthy Towns Foundation

Scholarships

All 5 Healthy Town Wellness Centers (Chelsea, Dexter, Manchester and Stockbridge) have scholarships available for those who may need assistance. To learn more about scholarships opportunities, please visit member services or call 734.214.0220 for more information.

Manchester Community Schools and 5 Healthy Towns Foundation have agreed to transfer management of Manchester Wellness Center to MCS.  The formal transition will be effective April 1, 2020.  You can read the full story here.

Learn more about our Wellness Centers

• Chelsea Wellness Center
• Dexter Wellness Center
• Manchester Wellness Center
• Stockbridge Wellness Center

Learn more about the many free programs and membership opportunities 5 Healthy Towns Foundation Wellness Centers bring to our communities.  Click on the links above to take a virtual tour, get contact information and more!