10 Ways to Stay Healthy This Winter
That dreaded tickle in your throat. The annoying sniffles. The constant fatigue. Ugh, being sick sucks. And while having an excuse to stay home in your pj’s sounds nice, it’s not actually the case when everything hurts and you can only breathe through one nostril. Here are ten ways to make sure it doesn’t happen to you this winter.
BRING YOUR LUNCH
We’ve all given in to the cookies (and other temptations around the office) and called it a “meal” when we’re too busy or stressed to grab a real lunch. Instead, pack something nutritious that boosts your immunity (think lots of fruits, veggies and whole grains) and then have a cookie as a treat.
MEDITATE
Simply put, stress lowers your resistance to infection, making you more susceptible to catching a cold or the flu. Carve out a little time for meditation and relaxation every day to keep an even keel through it all. After all, a mellow mind equals a healthier body.
BOOK A SPA DAY
Experts say that just 20 minutes of massage can decrease your cortisol levels (cortisol = stress hormones that weaken your immunity). Can’t swing an appointment? Get a foam roller and slowly roll it up and down under your back while listening to a podcast.
TAKE A DAILY STROLL
Studies show that taking a brisk walk every day for 30 to 45 minutes increases the number of immune system cells in your body. The fresh air and extra sunlight doesn’t hurt, either.
LAUGH
Cracking up at a joke or a funny cat video counteracts the effects of stress and boosts your immune system. So cue up some sitcoms or grab a pal for that aforementioned daily walk.
