This year, with the additional pressure of COVID-19, there are even more health recommendations to abide by. Staying indoors with little sunlight or physical activity will give anyone a case of the winter blues. Make the winter season easier with these 5 tips to help you stay healthy:
1. Follow COVID-19 Guidelines
Small indoor spaces reduce air flow which increases the risk of spreading bacteria and viruses. In order to decrease your risk of contracting Coronavirus (or other bugs), avoid crowded places and practice physical distancing. If it is necessary for you to leave the house, wear a clean, snug, double-layer mask in all indoor spaces. Lastly, be sure to consistently wash your hands and sanitize your home if regularly going out in public. Bring a small bottle of hand sanitizer when you’re out, just in case!
2. Stay Hydrated
You may think that because the temperature has dropped and you aren't sweating as much or engaging in physical activity, that you do not need to be conscious of water intake. However, the dry winter air actually removes moisture from your body, making hydration extra important in the winter months. Water is essential to healthy cognitive health and digestion. Make sure you are drinking at least 8 full glasses of water a day!
3. Keep Social Connections Strong
Studies have shown that isolation and loneliness can lead to high physical health risks. Social connections can help produce serotonin hormones for happiness, reducing one's risk for depression or anxiety. Stay socially connected to important people in your life by scheduling a call or video hangout. Keep conversations optimistic and light by sharing favorite memories or stories.
4. Maintain a Healthy Diet
A strong immune system is important for better fighting off germs keeping you healthy and safe. An immunity supportive diet includes fruits, veggies, and vitamin rich foods. It can be beneficial to avoid excess carbohydrates in the winter since you are generally moving around less. Adding healthy fats to your diet, such as avocado or olive oil, provide beneficial nutrients without increasing blood sugar levels. For extra support, try taking vitamins or even eating fermented food!
5. Get Active
With general lack of motivation and quarantine measures, finding the motivation to be physically active is harder than ever. But exercise is so important to our general health. Try and find new ways to get active this winter, whether it's walking through your neighborhood, taking a virtual class, or dancing, anything will be a step in the right direction! Exercise is the best way to boost your mood and beat the winter blues.
These tips are very easy to implement into daily life- but start slow! Go at your own pace and don’t put too much pressure on yourself. We hope these tips will help you stay healthy and happy this winter!