We’ve all had to make adjustments this year with COVID-19 gripping almost every area of our lives. Celebrities and public figures are no different- which is why we asked them how they’ve adapted, what’s inspired them during this difficult time, and how they make time for themselves.
HFR founder Samir Becic adds “It is immensely important that Texans stay physically fit during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
We hope that these positive tips and routines will make our readers feel less alone during these trying times and maybe even find some inspiration in adopting some of these COVID-19 healthy daily habits! You can also read her pre-COVID health and fitness interview here.
How are you staying physically active in the age of COVID-19?
Mayra Moreno: In the age of COVID its all about pushing yourself more than you ever have before. We’re stressed, and anxious so it is easy to get “lazy” and put it off. Now is the time go 10x harder.
When the gyms closed I canceled my membership. I was so bummed out because I was on a new workout program and I was making progress.
I started to rely a lot on YouTube fitness gurus to keep me motivated through a home workout. I also push myself to wake up and go out for a long run. I love being outside, so that’s half the battle. Getting a good sweat in and just releasing stress on the pavement is so worth it.
Also, my husband and I decided to finally get a garage gym going. One of my in-laws built us a squat rack (he’s a welder :)) and slowly we started buying whatever weights have been available.
What are you eating?
Mayra Moreno: I’m still sticking to my prepped meals with a few cheat days in between to keep me sane. I stick with chicken, fish, and lots of veggies and fruit.
I have actually been eating a lot more fruit lately as a snack and pick me up. Instead of reaching for a chocolate bar, I go for an apple. Little things like that help me keep my weight in check.
Being the voice of information and news during a pandemic creates new and unforeseen obstacles- what are some of the challenges that you’ve successfully adapted to/overcome?
Mayra Moreno: The biggest one is the way we now conduct interviews. Most have been facetime. That is new to a lot of people so sometimes I have to talk a person through doing a cell phone video interview.
How has your job changed in the past few months?
Mayra Moreno: Speaking of interviews, I’m doing a lot more zoom and facetime interviews whereas before my photographer and I would be driving all over town to get these interviews in person.
Of course, now I’m wearing a mask often in public and in crowded places. If we do have any in-person interviews I no longer shake hands, which at first took some time to get used to, but now we just say hello from a distance and interview with a pole stick mic.
Also, I have been working with the same photographer for the past 4 months. Normally we switch between photographers. Thankfully my photog and I get along well so we haven’t had any issues.
How are you managing your stress during this time?
Mayra Moreno: I’m not going to lie it has been tough especially because we talk about it day in and day out in media. I try to tune it all out when I get home. On the weekends I enjoy just relaxing with my husband watching a show on Netflix or just taking some time to read. Also, going for a run has been very therapeutic for me. I rely on prayer a lot when I feel anxious or stressed.
A bit of positivity: have you seen an act of kindness or generosity during this difficult time that has moved you or inspired you?
Mayra Moreno: My church has inspired me. They have been handing out food donations every Saturday to families in need. It’s a small church but even so, they are there for the community no matter what.
The leaders behind it are so full of light have giving grateful hearts.
How are you staying in touch with family and friends?
Mayra Moreno: Drive-by’s to the parents’ house and the usual facetime calls. A lot of text messaging for sure. I miss being able to just drive to my grandmas and say hello. I make sure to call her as often as possible.
Any tips for staying more connected?
Mayra Moreno: Text messaging is the best. A good ”hello” “good morning” “how are you” will go a long way for someone. But nothing beats a phone call. Sometimes we just need to hear that familiar voice to talk to.
What’s one good habit you have developed during this time that you want to keep?
Mayra Moreno: I started drinking celery juice first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. I talk about this a lot on my personal Instagram. I have had more time to read so I’ve been reading a lot of Medical Medium books and have since incorporated most of his protocols to boost my immune system and get rid of pathogens in my body.
We all have some tough days, what keeps you positive and motivated as a public figure?
Mayra Moreno: The fact that now more than ever the public is looking to the media for the latest information or even some bit of good news.
My mom watches my newscast religiously so knowing she’s on the other end of the tube keeps me going too. I feel blessed to be working in this great TV market because it’s my home. Not a lot of people in this business get to do that.
What do you most look forward to doing again after restrictions are lifted?
Mayra Moreno: Just being with my parents and grandmother without fear. This has made me realize how important family is to me even more. That’s what I care about the most these days.
What was the most fun quarantine activity you’ve done?
Mayra Moreno: Couch surf on my own couch! I have enjoyed just being at home with my husband and our dog.
What were the best and worst parts of working from home, especially when filming a newscast?
Mayra Moreno: I actually have not been WFH. I have been able to keep my “normal” routine. I still drive to work anchor my 3 pm newscast and head out if need be to cover a story for the 10 pm newscast.
How did you and other coworkers stay in touch?
Mayra Moreno: We text and we also Instagram video chat. At the beginning of quarantine a few of us had a virtual brunch and we “hung” out and just talked while each of us enjoyed our home-cooked meal.
What are 3 tips you would give to all Americans during COVID-19?
Mayra Moreno:
1- Stay positive no matter what. Look at the bright side of things and know this is not forever.
2- Don’t forget to laugh and smile. That always gets me through. Suround yourself (virtually of course) with people that will keep you motivated and positive.
3- Stay connected with those you love and above all stay connected with God.
