7 Tried and Tested Tips for A Winner Winter
It’s that time of the year again when we’ll do everything we can to feel cozy. Since winter this year is different from the previous ones, we are reminded that good health is the best investment we could ever give ourselves and the people we love. Now more than ever is the time to give priority to our health - no matter the season.
Still, we want to make sure that this winter is as pleasurable as before. Even in the midst of a world pandemic, we can still make the most out of this season by observing safety health measures and timeless practices to make sure that you are at your best in the time of winter.
Below are 7 of the tried-and-tested tips we’ve rounded up so you can spend the holidays and the whole winter with a stronger body, mind, and spirit.
1. Always keep your hands clean.
Proper hand hygiene is a must these days. We’ve heard it all over the news and it can’t be farther from the truth. Washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water aren’t available, remains to be a tried-and-tested way to keep germs and viruses from spreading and preventing them from getting into your eyes, nose, or mouth.
2. Commit to a healthy diet and exercise.
A nutrient-rich diet composed of vegetables, fruits, lean protein, and whole grains is the main source of vitamins and minerals your body needs to stay healthy. If you feel like treating yourself, opt for foods that satisfy your cravings but contain less fat and added sugar.
On the other hand, keeping yourself active and moving will also be beneficial for your body. If you can’t do your usual routine, try to do light physical activities like brisk walking, raking leaves, or simply climbing the stairs. Just move your body. These simple exercises help you lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety, and improve the quality of your sleep.
3. Seize your sleep.
What to do when days are shorter and the weather’s colder? Sleep longer! But don’t feel guilty about it, it’s your body’s natural response as it adjusts its rhythm to the hours of daylight. It’s the longer nights that you can seize the chance to wind down and relax. But don’t sleep too long. Give your body just the right amount of “plenty” of rest it needs to rejuvenate and recharge.
4. Don’t forget to take your vitamins.
We refer to winter as the cold and flu season, and it’s not without supporting evidence. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the flu season peaks between the months of December and February. The dreaded COVID19 virus around us these days gives us more reason to stay on high alert and put our health at the top of our priorities by taking immune-boosting vitamins. Giving your body an extra boost of protection means safety for you and your family, too.
5. Care for your hair and skin.
The cold air and less humid climate cause your hair and skin to dry which leads to an itchy scalp, chapped lips, brittle nails, and dry hair. Aside from frequently moisturizing from head to toe, try to stay hydrated as often as you can, take warm instead of hot showers to avoid dehydrating your skin and hair, opt for natural exfoliants like oatmeal with milk & honey, and reduce excessive hair treatments and use of hot tools. Also, nothing beats winter care for your skin, hair and nails when they’re well-nourished from within.
6. Get your flu shot.
Your annual flu shot is very essential now more than ever. According to the CDC, during 2018‒2019, “flu vaccination prevented an estimated 4.4 million influenza illnesses, 2.3 million influenza-associated medical visits, 58,000 influenza-associated hospitalizations, and 3,500 influenza-associated deaths.”
7. Your mental health is important.
Winter blues are real, and they may be heightened this year due to the effects of the pandemic. To manage stress and anxiety in a healthy way, go for a slow outdoor walk, practice mindfulness, meditate even for as short as 10 minutes, or just get lost in the moment while listening to soulful music. Also, don’t forget to stay connected with your family and friends because they are your support system. You may also add mood support in your daily routine which can help improve and relieve stress and anxiety.
Even if it feels like Covid19 has taken the world’s center stage this year, there’s still a silver lining after all. If we look around us, we’ll find reasons to still be thankful for like our families who are still with us as well as the stories of healing and how our faith in humanity is restored by the way we stood by each other’s side in these trying times. If we look within, we’ll realize that what matters most in life are the things money can’t buy like good health and wellness.
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