Six Ways to Boost Your Health and Wellness This Winter
Cold and rainy winter days have officially arrived on island, so 'tis the season to keep your health in check. Doing these six simple things can help to make sure your mind and body are protected this holiday season.
1. Frequent Hand Washing
Now that we continue to live amidst a global pandemic, it is more important than ever to practice frequent and safe hand hygiene. Washing your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds helps prevent the spread of infections.
2. Drink Herbal Teas
There are many health benefits that come from drinking herbal teas. Lemon and ginger tea is a natural pain reliever with anti-inflammatory properties, chamomile is known to ease depression and anxiety and green matcha is a great antioxidant that improves brain function.
3. Create an Exercise Plan
Stay motivated this winter by holding yourself accountable to a weekly exercise plan. Health guidelines indicate that adults should achieve a minimum of 150 minutes of activity per week. You can spread this out over a few winter walks around our parks, or by picking up a new indoor hobby such as yoga.
4. Get the Flu Vaccine
It is important to get vaccinated against the flu every year to reduce your risk of flu illness but more importantly it can also help save resources needed for the care of patients with COVID-19.
5. Maintain a Balanced Diet, Add Vitamin Supplements Where Needed
Increasing your consumption of vitamin C in the winter can help prepare your body to battle cold and flu symptoms when they arise. Adding plenty of citrus fruit and broccoli to your meals will keep you covered in that department. While we are fortunate enough to still have some sunny days in the winter, we still need to ensure we receive an appropriate amount of vitamin D through supplements or by including salmon, red meat, and egg yolks to your diet.
6. Head to the Sauna
If the winter weather has got you feeling down or the abundance of COVID-19 news has you experiencing higher levels of stress, saunas and steam rooms can help. Not only are they relaxing, but their high temperatures will have you working up a sweat, which is a great way to flush toxins from your body.