Last weekend we had almost 70 degree weather and this weekend's forecast is snow. The weather is changing and the so called “flu-season” is upon us. As you know, this time of year we tend to see people around us coughing, sneezing, blowing their noses, and having cold and flu symptoms! More people are getting sick not because of a “flu season”, but due to many other factors. Let’s find out what you can do to ensure healthy holidays!
1. We spend a lot more time indoors. This means we breathe in more circulated air which gives us a greater chance to “catch a cold”. Additionally, the flu virus lives longer in the type of climate most prevalent during these months. One way to stay health is going for walks outside in sunlight for 15-20 minutes a day. Exercise, increasing your Vitamin D intake (sunlight), and fresh outdoor air all help strengthen your immune function. Small steps like these, every day can add up in the long run.
2. SLEEP and WATER. The power of sleep and proper hydration cannot be overstated. Many sore throats start this time of year from those two factors alone. We recommend at the very least 6-8 hours. (I know this can be difficult.. I'll have an upcoming blog about this) Furthermore, the World Health Organization suggests you drink at least half of your body weight in ounces of water a day. I know this can be difficult when it is not 85 degrees outside, but it can ensure your body is working optimally. Water is fuel for your body; don’t drive around on empty.
3. Lastly, proper nutrition and self reflection around this time of year is key. Stress with family, money, and your job around the holidays will lower your immune function, and make you more susceptible to infections! Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years, etc are all holidays we tend to overdo the drinking and eating. Stress and sugar are major factors why people can’t seem to stay healthy this time of year. Eat whole foods and spend at least 5 minutes a day in reflection, meditation, or prayer. For example, reach for a piece of dark chocolate instead of that store bought cake. This will give your body its best chance to hold off virulent infections.
Implementing the strategies above will best prepare you for the upcoming “flu season”. In my office, we focus on Whole Body Balance which is your body’s ability to adapt to its environment in order to thrive as an individual. Stress on your body can disrupt the balance of your nervous system. Stress comes in many forms such as physical stress, chemical stress, nutritional stress, and emotional stress. Over time, the stress disrupts your body’s Balance which can allow for lowered immune response resulting in sickness! At House of Chiropractic we focus specifically on techniques to reduce such stressors. I hope you found this informative, if so, please share it with someone who might have stress in their life right now!
Yours in Health,
Dr. Lydia

Comments