Wellness in the time of COVID-19

Hi there everyone. I know there is a lot of written information circulating these days and like everyone, keeping up has become a marathon. I hope to keep this little blog as short as possible, whilst hopefully giving some helpful tips and keeping it light.

 As Emergency Physicians we are the front line and are facing immense challenges ahead. At this time, I’d like to remind you all that, in a way, we are trained for this. We are taught to be adaptable, versatile and pragmatic. It may not feel like we are ready, but amongst the medical specialties we are the best at thinking on our feet and facing whatever challenges come our way. 

This week I’m going to talk about my top 5 apps for wellness (in no particular order):

1:  The TREAT app. This is a FREE app designed out of the Alfred Hospital in Melbourne for healthcare workers. It features a series of varied length mindfulness sessions targeted for us- there is one for MET calls and for leaving the shift. Need a few minutes to take a breath? Use this. 

2: The Calm app. This app can be downloaded for free with trials, and in-app subscriptions for premium content. I’ve been using this app since the time of exams and it is invaluable- I have subscribed to the premium version for a small annual fee. It has many features- breathing exercises, stretches, guided meditations including courses, and my favourite- sleep stories- which can be played to get you off to sleep (yes there are ones for naps too!). Can’t fall asleep? Listen to Matthew McConaughey (yes they have many celebrities reading) lull you off to sleep. Alright, alright,  alright. 

3: Asana Rebel. This app has in-app purchases starting from $15/year up to premium at $75/year. But for the content it’s worth it- I have premium access and use this app instead of attending yoga classes so it’s actually cheaper considering you can use it anywhere, anytime, as much as you want. If you’re into yoga, regardless of level (beginner through to advanced) this app is great. I have used this for two years and love the content. They have different types of yoga- for stress relief, stretching, get in shape, travel etc. Namastay!

4:  ThinkUp app. This app lets you record and play back affirmations to yourself (or listen to generic ones with different topics such as self-confidence). When I first thought of this I was hesitant too- but before a job interview, exam or interaction with a difficult colleague it really works. Options for free trial and in-app purchases are available. 

5: MapMyWalk app. This app tracks your walk and logs your pace (per kilometre and average) and calories burned and can be used for walking or running. There is a free version available, annual subscription to a premium service costs $45 and provides suggested tracks and routes to explore. When you can, a walk in fresh air is great (as we know). 

So there it is, my app suggestions. I have no affiliation with any of the above apps/companies and I have genuinely used and enjoyed them all. I’m happy to take any comments or questions. Stay well and remember to breathe. 

-A

Dr Angela La Macchia is an FACEM in Melbourne and has a Masters of Public Health from Johns Hopkins University majoring in disaster management and policy, global health and health emergencies in large populations. She’s also into fitness, yoga, pilates and being a dog mum. 

Can you guess where this? Each post Angela will put up a photo for you to guess. Answers on a postcard….