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?
Jessica Borg: I’m a big fan of outdoor exercise. I take walks around my neighborhood after work when it’s not so sweltering. I try to keep the walks at a fast pace, or I wear old-school ankle weights. I also stretch, play tennis, and run after my son a lot! We have sprinting races and play volleyball together.
What are you eating?
Jessica Borg: I’m eating homemade breads and especially enjoy fish with vegetables. I have a protein- and vegetable-packed breakfast and smaller meals after that. I prepare snacks ahead of time, so that I can grab something healthy on the fly. I gravitate toward walnuts and fruit for snacks. Speaking of walnuts, I started using walnut oil within the last year to cook with or drizzle on food, and I love it. It’s flavorful and nutritious, with Omega-3s.
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? -How has your job changed in the past few months?
Jessica Borg: Newsgathering has changed these past few months, but the news business is constantly changing anyway. Instead of approaching people on the street or interviewing people in person, you’re doing computer interviews to stay safe. It’s merely a transition as opposed to an obstacle. I file my reports from my home studio.
As far as being a communicator during this crisis, sometimes it’s a case of “don’t blame the messenger.” Journalists can be targets on social media, for example, merely for covering a particular topic.
How are you managing your stress during this time?
Jessica Borg: A good stretch, a quiet walk, or just listening to a great song are wonderful outlets.
A bit of positivity: have you seen an act of kindness or generosity during this difficult time that has moved you or inspired you
Jessica Borg: Yes! My neighbor’s daughter was encouraged by another young woman to sew masks for people with hearing loss. The masks have see-through plastic around the mouth area, so that lip-reading can still take place. Both ladies make the masks with beautiful fabrics and donate them to those in need.
How are you staying in touch with family and friends?
Jessica Borg: We FaceTime, text and call. Staying in contact with family and friends is vital. I have 4 siblings and we have a daily group text. I was reaching out to relatives, friends, and colleagues in New York intensely when that area was a COVID hotspot. Now, they’re doing the same with me because Texas is a hotspot.
Any tips for staying more connected?
Jessica Borg: I recommend reaching out to folks who you’ve lost touch with over the years. Those connections are so meaningful. Even if it’s just a short back and forth, getting in touch with old friends, colleagues, and mentors is worthwhile and uplifting.
What’s one good habit you have developed during this time that you want to keep?
Jessica Borg: I never thought this would be the answer, but here goes: getting up very early! Really early. I do it for work, but throughout the course of the pandemic and while working remotely, getting up even earlier has allowed me to have precious extra time to myself. I get to focus, plan for the day, and have that quiet time. It’s productive without being rushed.
We all have some tough days, what keeps you positive and motivated as a public figure?
Jessica Borg: I believe we’re living in an extraordinarily difficult time that will change and evolve like everything else. I’m motivated to keep learning new information, bring that information to light in a relevant, relatable way, and also highlight all of the good out there pushing us forward. When all is said and done, I am grateful that I’m healthy, my loved ones are healthy, and I have a fulfilling job that allows me to grow.
What do you most look forward to doing again after restrictions are lifted?
Jessica Borg: I can’t wait until it’s safe to travel extensively! There are so many places on my list to experience. I want my son to feel the same delight and freedom in being able to explore. Just last week my college roommate and I were talking about how we backpacked abroad for months after school, and how impactful it is to have milestone expeditions.
What was the most fun quarantine activity you’ve done?
Jessica Borg: My son and I swim and he creates these elaborate competitions. They involve laps with different strokes, getting out of the pool, throwing a ball into a goal, jumping back in, diving for coins, etc. He remembers every step of the course, but my timed score keeps diminishing because I have to constantly ask him what I’m supposed to do next!
What were the best and worst parts of working from home, especially when filming a newscast?
Jessica Borg: There are many perks to working from home. The convenience of not having to commute around Houston is enormous. One challenge is doing Zoom interviews with bustling activity in the background! Fortunately, people understand and many are facing the same balancing act: trying to conduct a professional life from a personal, family environment.
How did you and other coworkers stay in touch?
Jessica Borg: We send quick texts to check in and let each other know how we’re doing, what we’re wearing, what we’re eating (haha)!
What are 3 tips you would give to all Americans during COVID-19?
Jessica Borg: I have to start by acknowledging that people are doing the best we can and we all have to create our own blueprints for how to navigate this crisis.
As far as what works for me, I’d say:
1) Try to stay conscientious of all aspects of your health. Making one adjustment to your eating habits – or perspective! – can make a big difference. Do it and feel good about it.
2) It’s okay to stall your plans for a while. Try to move through the day-to-day being present in each seemingly small moment; enjoy that cup of coffee.
3) Fresh air is key. Get yourself outside – staying physically distanced, of course.
