As fall bids a warm goodbye and winter steps in with open and definite chilly arms, it’s time to break out the blankets, warm drinks… and tissues? Yes, you read that right; with the temperatures dropping, an increased risk of colds, sniffles, and the unfortunate flu creep in. This is the familiar seasonal challenge, affecting everyone from kids playing on the playground to high school and college kids trying to get through finals or adults just trying to get through the day. But with a few mindful habits, anyone can stay healthy and avoid those annoying winter bugs. Here are four tips for staying healthy, vital, and mucus-free as winter settles in.
1. Get Fresh Air
Fresh air helps prevent sickness by reducing the virus particles building up inside your home. So, while winter brings in the colder weather, California’s mild climate still allows for outdoor activity even as the season changes. Spending time outdoors getting fresh air can do wonders for overall health if done safely, like taking your dog for a walk, finding a lovely space to read, or just keeping the windows open in your home. The fresh air combined with natural sunlight offers a break from indoor air and can help strengthen immunity during the colder months.
2. Getting Good, Quality, Restful Sleep
Unfortunately, many teenagers do not get enough sleep. However, sleep is essential for staying healthy because it facilitates the natural process of your body temperature dropping as you fall asleep. This means it allows your body to cool down naturally, which helps your muscles and mind rest and repair. So winter provides the best excuse to get more rest. Aim for about 7-9 hours each night, and remember that keeping a consistent sleep schedule is important!
3. Exercise
Exercising helps prevent sickness by boosting the immune system and improving cardiovascular health. While curling up in warm blankets on the couch is tempting, staying active is essential to a robust immune system fighting a war against winter bugs. Whether you are indoors or outdoors, make sure to stay active! Aim for at least 30 minutes of movement daily since it benefits physical and mental health (Jen Torok).
4. Eat Healthy
Eating healthy helps prevent sickness by providing many essential vitamins and minerals that boost your immune system (Mycelyum). The immune system thrives on good nutrition, so eating seasonal foods like fruits, greens, lentils, and root vegetables can help strengthen the body’s defenses. Garlic, ginger, and turmeric are great spices that shield your immune system. These ingredients work especially well in sips, stews, and tea! It offers both flavors and immune-boosting properties.
Cienna Olsen (11) can second all of this. As the weather cools, she claims to “exercise early in the mornings, eat healthy foods, and drink tea and a lot of water to stay hydrated.” By embracing these habits, anyone can face winter’s war. Winter brings the cold, but healthy routines will keep your body and mind ready to make the most of the season!
