The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a drastic decline in mental and physical health, and many people feel more anxiety, stress, and depression than ever before. To uplift and enlighten neighbors, friends, coworkers, and family, the Intl. WeLoveU Foundation hosted a Healthy Habits webinar. Hundreds of viewers from around the world tuned in on Wednesday, August 18, 2021, at 7 p.m. ET. Health enthusiasts Dr. Monique and Elissa Pettinato PA-C spoke about building a happier and healthier lifestyle.  

About the Speakers  

One of WeLoveU’s very own, Dr. Monique Bowman, is a licensed naturopathic doctor in Connecticut. With more than ten years of practice, Dr. Monique specializes in helping women who suffer from fatigue, stress, depression, insomnia, and thyroid imbalances and educates them on the importance of nutrition using vitamins, nutrients, and herbs.  

Next, meet Elissa Pettinato. She also joined the panel as a highly-trained physician assistant who diagnoses, prescribes, and treats patients for a wide variety of different cases. Before becoming a physician assistant, Elissa spent several years as a personal trainer at a health fitness center. Elissa describes that it was there that she found her passion for health, fitness, and wellness, a love that she has continued to carry throughout her career.  

COVID-19’s Harm on Health 

WeLoveU host, Duane Ford, began the discussion by asking the experienced panelists to describe the general effects COVID-19 has had on the global community’s mental and physical health.

“When we think about the response that your body has to a stressful event or episode, it’s no different standing in front of a tiger than it is dealing with some of the challenges that people are facing due to COVID-19, such as the loss of income or loss of a loved one,” said Dr. Monique Bowman.  

“A 2020 Food and Health survey showed that 41% of parents in the U.S. reported snacking more,” explained Elissa, “probably due to the stress of trying to work from home and manage your kids all at the same time.”  

In all, the panelists described the whopping data that proves stress, depression, less exercise, and poor eating habits have all been the result of the COVID-19 pandemic.  

Time for Tips!  

After discussing the effects of the novel coronavirus on the world’s mental health and lifestyle choices, viewers eagerly waited to hear from the health experts for tips on living healthier in the face of increased stress.  

“Physical activity is anything that gets you moving and your heart rate increased. So, it doesn’t have to be running or crazy workouts. It can be something as simple as taking a walk after dinner or walking the dog,” explained Elissa. “My personal favorite is having a dance party with my two-year-old in the kitchen.”

“During sleep, your body regulates the hormones that control your metabolism, sleep cycle, and the way your body responds to stress,” noted Dr. Monique. “So, it’s so important to set a regular time to sleep and wake up, have that rhythm so that your body sticks to a particular routine to keep your hormones balanced for the long-term health benefits.”  

The panelists enthusiastically agreed with each other’s tips. They explained the health benefits of many other lifestyle changes, such as replacing sugar foods with high-fiber fruits and vegetables, keeping a daily gratitude journal, and trying a social media fitness challenge competition with your friends.