The holiday season is officially upon us!
But just because it’s holiday time doesn’t mean that the season’s little ills will take a break. Here are six tips to avoid them and have a happy, healthy, and festive holiday season.
Stay hydrated.
There is nothing better than an ice-cold glass of water on a hot day. But it’s a little harder to get in those daily recommended eight glasses when there is frost accumulating outside. However, we must remember to stay hydrated throughout the winter months.
Not only does water keep you hydrated, but it also helps regulate body temperature and is essential to keeping your body functioning properly. Water will boost your immune system and help prevent you from getting sick during cold and flu season. Drinking plenty of water can also help increase metabolism; it will help you feel full longer, and it will do wonders for your skin and hair.
Rest up.
Not only is this the most wonderful time of the year, but it’s also the busiest. Don’t run yourself ragged during the day only to stay up late wrapping presents or preparing for the office party. When you don’t get a good night’s sleep, you run down your body and make yourself more susceptible to illness. Lack of sleep will affect your mental state as well.
Getting enough sleep helps you make consistent and positive lifestyle choices—things like eating healthy and staying active go out the window if you have no energy.
Eat well.
Let’s face it, rich foods, desserts, and cocktails are inevitable during the holidays. Rather than try to fight it, be smart about it to avoid overindulging. It’s essential to stay balanced and do everything in moderation. If you are going to a holiday party with lots of heavy foods, have a light breakfast and a healthy lunch. Make sure you are eating plenty of vitamin-rich foods to help keep that immune system boosted.
Have that Christmas cocktail or participate in the celebratory glass (or two) of champagne but be careful not to go overboard. Drinking in excess, even for just the holidays, can do its fair share of damage. And if eating healthy seems like an overwhelming task during the holidays, contact The Simple Clinic and ask about our medical weight loss program. Together we will focus on weight management with a balanced diet that allows you to make smart food choices while still enjoying the festivities.
Stay active.
Don’t neglect your exercise program during the holidays. It’s even more important to stay active during the fall and winter months when illnesses and stresses are everywhere. Besides being good for your overall health, exercise can reduce stress, release endorphins, and help you to forget about your worries. It is recommended that you increase your level of physical activity this time of the year. So, kick that routine up a notch this season. Not only will you feel better, but you’ll also burn more calories.
Beat germs.
Handshakes, kisses, and hugs are a great way to show some love, but they are also a great way to spread infections. Those stair rails, elevator buttons, and ATM screens that you’re bound to encounter while holiday shopping are virus breeding grounds. Prevent sickness by:
- Wash your hands often and keep them away from your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Always keep a small bottle of antibacterial gel on hand to protect yourself from the viruses and bacteria you’re sure to encounter during the holidays.
- Try to keep your distance from people who show any symptoms.
It sounds simple, but it’s not always easy to do at gatherings. Finally, don’t forget your vaccinations. Call The Simple Clinic today to schedule your flu shot. And if you do happen to find yourself sick for the season, be sure to utilize our e-Visit, where you can be treated from the comfort of your home.
Take a time out.
This time of year, it’s crucial to manage stress. Money worries, stressing about getting all the gifts on your list, cooking for parties, and making time to see everyone can leave you feeling burnt out. If you are feeling stressed or tired, it’s time to schedule a little time out.
You might not have time for a spa day during the holiday madness, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take a moment for yourself. Between shopping, cooking, and hosting, make sure you take time each day to relax and clear your mind. Take an evening walk, indulge in a luxurious bubble bath, binge on Netflix, or treat yourself to a massage. There are many ways to take some time out and pamper yourself that won’t cost too much of your valuable time and money.
The holiday season is a time for family, friends, baking, wrapping, and shopping. However, these tasks and traditions aren’t always fun, and the season’s stresses can often leave us rundown and weak. Surviving the holidays can be challenging, but this happy time of year can be miserable if you end up sick.
The holidays are about family and friends, but we must take care of ourselves before we take care of others. For more help on how to stay healthy this holiday, keep following The Simple Clinic or call us today!