Life in lockdown has been frustrating but bearable in some instances. However, DStv has taken proactivity to a whole new level with on-air daily workouts.
New workout channel comes to DStv: What we know
The cable network announced a new insert for the sports category, a channel dedicated to daily at-home workouts for those who want to maintain an active lifestyle in quarantine.
The world’s leading fitness coaches and instructors host a range of health programmes, ranging from beginners cardio sessions, advanced high-intensity interval training (HIIT), to mental health healing sessions.
When do the daily workouts air and on what channel?
The programme launched on DStv’s SuperSport Blitz channel (200) on Thursday and it will occupy the 08:00 and 17:00 slots on a daily basis.
According to Channel 24, the debut screening featured VA fitness instructors Ceri Hannan and BongoNtlokwana leading a very intense HIIT session.
For those whose time is not as flexible due to adjusted remote work schedules, the programme will be accessible on DStv Catch Up as well as Showmax.
Take care of your mental health during lockdown
This announcement comes a day into South Africa’s extended lockdown. Many law-abiding citizens have been cooked up at home for 21 days, with an added 14 left before a decision is made on the country’s functioning status.
Cipla’s CEO Paul Miller wrote in a recent piece that prioritising mental health is just as important as taking precautionary measures to stop the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).
“These are unprecedented times, and everybody is going to react in different ways. It’s important for people who may be feeling more stressed, depressed or anxious than usual, to know that there are ways to help manage this, and people to turn to for support,” Miller wrote.
Tips on how to cope with mental health pressures
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) has developed a list of these tips on how to cope with mental health pressures during the lockdown.
- Maintain a daily routine.
- Restrict media and social media coverage to prevent it from becoming too overwhelming. Only obtain info from credible news sources.
- Acknowledge your feelings and focus on things you can control.
- Find things to keep you busy (whether it’s constructive or creative) to help lift your mood.
- Stay connected with your loved ones via technology.
- If you’re on medication, remember to take it as prescribed.
