We know just how important it is to act with caution and keep ourselves isolated through social distancing and, where possible, working from home are in preventing the spread of coronavirus and protecting the most vulnerable members of our communities, however we are also acutely aware of the mental and physical strains these precautions present.

The best health tips while practising social distancing

The link between social isolation and mental health may feel like unchartered territory, so we've rounded up our top physical and mental health tips for maintaining a clear mind and sense of wellbeing while social distancing.

Firstly- what is social distancing?

The definition of social distancing is the practice of limiting contact with other people to prevent the spread of germs and viral pathogens.

Perhaps more accurately described as physical distancing, the principle is that the fewer people with whom we come into contact, the lower our chances of both contracting and passing on coronavirus.

We can help to prevent further spread of coronavirus in Australia by staying unless we are completing an essential activity. Essential activities include shopping for groceries, visiting healthcare providers and, if your workplace is not allowing employees to work from home, going to work.

If you do leave your house, it's recommended that you stay at least 1.5m away from other people and touch as few surfaces as possible. When you do touch a surface? Wash your hands with soap and water.

Our top tips for maintaining your mental and physical health while working from home

1. Do stay connected to your loved ones and community

Don't let social distancing limit your social connections. While practising physical distancing, it's important to maintain contact with your loved ones through the phone, email, video conferencing, instant messaging and social media. Moving to a working from home setup and practising social isolation can be a big mental shift, but you can improve your mental health at home by staying in touch.

If you are healthy and able, consider looking for ways in which you can safely help those who may be feeling particularly lonely and vulnerable- both mentally and physically. We recommend checking in on elderly neighbours, picking up groceries who can't do so themselves, and ensuring those who may be vulnerable are set up with technology they need to stay in touch with their friends and family.

2. Don't isolate yourself entirely

While the recommendations are to stay at home wherever possible, don't shut out the outside world entirely. Natural light and fresh air are essential for both the mind and the body, so open your windows to encourage natural light and ventilation and spend time in any outdoor areas of your own home such as your balcony, garden or courtyard to get your daily dose of vitamin D. This is one of our favourite working from home tips, as fresh air can help to clear the mind and boost productivity.

3. Do keep your home and body clean

Even in self isolation, it's important to keep your body and home clean to kill germs and prevent the spread of COVID-19. Although you aren't leaving the house often, tasks like accepting deliveries and bringing groceries into the home can leave you susceptible to the virus. Protect yourself and your family by regularly cleaning your home, your hands, and the rest of your body.

If you're looking for products that will keep your space clean without harming the environment and potentially compromising the health of your family, choose natural cleaning products like the Counter Culture All Purpose Organic Cleaner - Lavender, and organic hand sanitisers, like the Life Basics Antibacterial Hand Sanitiser.

4. Don't forget to exercise

Staying fit at home is surprisingly simple, and it can help to boost both your mental health and your productivity while in isolation and ensure you're working from home effectively. Make an effort to engage in a few simple exercises at home to stay fit, like running on a treadmill, completing a yoga class at home or making time to walk around your garden each day.

5. Do practise mindfulness

Meditation and mindfulness can go a long way in relieving stress and anxiety, helping to put things into perspective while practising social isolation. One of our top mental health tips is to set aside a few minutes each day to calm down, relax and unwind. We like to accompany our mindfulness practise with an essential oils from the ECO. AROMA Wellbeing Collection, or a relaxing body oil- our current favourite is the Weleda Relaxing Lavender Body Oil.

6. Don't abandon a health diet

Healthy eating is essential year 'round, but it is of particular importance in the face of a public health crisis like coronavirus. Boost your immunity and protect yourself from viral infections by eating leafy greens, citrus and superfoods. Consider working an immune boosting supplement or additional vitamins into your daily health routine. We love The Beauty Chef Well Spray for an immunity boost on the go.

While practising social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia can make it difficult to maintain optimum mental and physical health, a few simple lifestyle adjustments can make the "new normal" a bit easier. Our simple guide can help you feel connected, calm and healthy throughout this difficult time.

For more health tips and advice for natural living, visit our blog.