The holiday season is upon us.
With all the joy, excitement and happiness of the holidays also comes stress, overscheduling, not-such-perfect eating habits, less time for exercise and even possibly, higher alcohol consumption — all contributors to impacting our health and wellness.
Here are some tips to help ensure you and your loved ones stay health during the holiday season:
Hydrate
Yes, hydration is often talked about as a vital component to health but during winter, it is perhaps even more important. Drinking at least eight cups per day with and between meals keep you hydrated, healthy and armed to fend off infections
Reduce stress
Try to focus on holiday traditions and emphasize good cheer. The holidays do create extra pressures for many. Try to find a way to stay focused and organized and make time for what matters most to you and yours during this special time of year
Get rest
Don’t neglect your sleep and try to stick to your daily regimen. Many become overscheduled with holiday celebrations and parties. Limit caffeine and alcohol and large late-night meals to ensure the best ZZZZ’s possible
Dress accordingly
In our parts here in the Northeast, it can be extraordinary cold over the holidays. Wearing layers, hats and mittens better protects you from inclement weather and helps support health and wellness
Limit time outside in the cold
It’s best to avoid too much time outside for fear of frostbite and even hypothermia. Also, pay close attention to weather hazards, such as snow storms to keep you and your family safe
Exercise
This time of year, fitness and exercise are more important than ever. Dull winter months filled with dim and dark skies and cold temperatures can easily dampen enthusiasm for exercise. Don’t let that stop you. Find indoor options to keep your fitness regimen and momentum going
Ward off those germs
It’s a simple solution … wash your hands! This is among the best ways to avoid getting sick and spreading common winter illnesses, such as colds. Germs accumulate through nearly everything you do or touch, so frequent hand-washing can make all the difference in the world. Wash hands for at least 20 seconds, scrubbing all surfaces and rinsing well. Also, get flu and COVID-19 vaccines to avoid being sick during the coldest time of year – which oftentimes, is in fact the holiday season
All of us at Consensus Health wish you a happy and HEALTHY holiday season. We are here to help in the event you or a family member does get sick. You know where to find us – this season and every season.