The last week has been a doozy of pandemic news and economic malaise. We have had games cancelled, postponed, and for a lucky few, played through. Schools and sporting events are closing as we all work to keep from contracting the virus. Is this really happening?
Yes it is...
So how do we move forward? How can we as lovers of soccer do anything?
The best way to help boost your immune system to fight off illness is through a healthy lifestyle. We need soccer. I don't care if you take to playing in your basement or still get a neighborhood pick-up game going, exercise is a huge part of keeping you healthy. Keep your training going. Keep your body moving.
We all understand the importance of cross-training to keep overuse injuries at bay. Get out into nature and be active. Do activities that will work different parts of your body. I just took a great hike the other day in the foothills of California. I worked out my whole body in a strenuous uphill climb and downhill decent. Believe me, I had sore muscles the next day. Look to go kayaking, biking, hiking, or even paddle boarding. Adding these activities to your routine will help when your soccer life gets back on schedule.
Finally, keep in touch with your friends and soccer teammates. Our second family created from our time playing soccer is special and it is those connections that also keep us mentally healthy. Don't isolate yourself to the point that you begin to suffer with depression and anxiety. Unless you are sick and getting treatment, you need to make an effort to reach out to your teammates. It might be through a chat group or facetime or even just an old fashioned phone call. Either way, mental health is just as important to your overall health as it is for your soccer game.
Now, more than ever, soccer is important to us just as washing our hands and eating healthy diets.