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!
How are you staying physically active in the age of COVID-19? What are you eating?
Allison Harris: I try to do something active every day, but I give myself grace if that doesn’t happen! I at least try to get out and go on a walk, minimum two miles and as far as five miles. I have really enjoyed doing at home workouts, which range from yoga and pilates to sculpt classes, and have recently started mixing in going back to my pilates reformer studio classes (masks and sanitizing machines required). Every now and then I have the energy to run! I never am strict with my diet. I eat what feels good to me, and keep it in moderation.
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?
Allison Harris: I’ve had to majorly set boundaries for myself. It hasn’t been easy. If I start responding to tweets and researching stories too early in the morning, I end up working all day and not taking time for myself or a mental break from news gathering. I work until 11 at night, so that isn’t healthy.
How has your job changed in the past few months?
Allison Harris: It feels more important than ever. I’m talking firsthand with nurses and doctors on the frontlines of the pandemic. Our reporting needs context and journalists who are plugged in and doing research to better understand and communicate what is happening in our communities. My work feels purposeful and urgent and absolutely necessary.
How are you managing your stress during this time?
Allison Harris: Getting out in nature and being in my body has helped me manage stress and also focus on my health. We are all surviving a pandemic. I have certainly had my moments of stress and anxiety. Calling on loved ones and leaning on them, taking time for myself, staying active and being intentional with what I am eating and just how much news and information and social media I am consuming in a day — making sure that is measured — helps immensely.
A bit of positivity: have you seen an act of kindness or generosity during this difficult time that has moved you or inspired you?
Allison Harris: This might sound trivial, but the little interactions I have with people on social media who are genuinely trying to understand what I’m reporting, asking questions with compassion or trying to help us, as journalists, better communicate to the public what is going on has a positive impact on me. It’s such a small thing, but people can be so ugly to reporters. Those who approach an interaction with me with kindness, especially behind on a computer screen, improves my mood.
On a larger scale, I am in awe of our medical professionals. They are professionals, in the truest form of that word. To knowingly put yourself at risk, and be unable to hold your family tight while witnessing the unbearable day in and day out … I have nothing but respect for them.
How are you staying in touch with family and friends? Any tips for staying more connected?
Allison Harris: Make a phone call! Simple as that. Take time in your day to see how someone else you care about is doing.
What’s one good habit you have developed during this time that you want to keep?
Allison Harris: I am very intentional lately, in prioritizing my health, setting boundaries for myself and counting my blessings. I have always been a person of gratitude, but even more so lately.
We all have some tough days, what keeps you positive and motivated as a public figure?
Allison Harris: I believe in journalism. I believe in the work I am doing. Simple as that. My family and boyfriend and close friends and colleagues help remind me of that.
What do you most look forward to doing again after restrictions are lifted?
Allison Harris: Traveling internationally! Would love to take a trip to Paris I had planned.
What was the most fun quarantine activity you’ve done?
Allison Harris: Picnics in the park! More of that.
What were the best and worst parts of working from home, especially when filming a newscast?
Allison Harris: It does feel slightly invasive having your home on the news! That’s a little weird. But getting to enjoy more time in the day to, say, cook dinner at home before a live shot is nice. We are often eating in a car out in the field somewhere!
How did you and other coworkers stay in touch?
Allison Harris: Honestly, social media can be a great tool.
What are 3 tips you would give to all Americans during COVID-19?
Allison Harris: Be kinder. Give people grace. Believe science.
