As a nurse and the mom of a kindergartener, I am pretty psychotic about germs.
I know how fast an illness can take down our entire family, so I leave nothing to chance.
Oh, your friend is coughing?
Let’s play over here instead.
You dropped that on the ground?
Leave it, it’s not worth it!
Flu shots are usually available starting in September or October.
Read on for 10 more ways to stay healthy and vibrant all winter long.
Wash those hands
Turns out your mom was right about washing your hands before dinner.
Washing your hands with soap and water is one of the best waysto prevent germs.
Aim to scrub your hands with soapy water for a full20 seconds.
Always carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer with you.
Check the label and check that the sanitizer is at least60 percent alcohol.
Get some rest
Getting plenty of sleepis another way to fend off the flu.
Healthy adults should aim forseven to eight hours per night.
“And should be thought of as a vital sign of good health.”
If you’re still feeling wired at bedtime, try making a few small tweaks in your evening routine.
Keep anything with a screen outside of your bedroom.
Shutting down your TV or phone at least an hour before bed will help your brain relax.
Chill out
Feeling chronically stressed doesn’t just affect your mood, it actuallylowers your immune system.
A mental health provider could help, but there are also some habits you could try on your own.
Exercising for at least 30 minutes per day can help manage stress.
Practicing mindfulness with yoga or meditation is also proven to ease stress.
And always make time for fun!
Scheduling dates with friends and family protect you from stress.
Cocktails with the ladies?
Yes, c’mon!
It can actually strengthen your immune system!
Exercise also helpsmanage stress, which is vital to preventing respiratory illness.
Your workout doesn’t have to be intense.
Just lacing up your shoes and going for a brisk walk will get the blood pumping.
Find an activity you enjoy and look forward to.
Meditate
Practicing meditation is an easy and free way to stay healthy.
Studies have shown that a regular meditation practice can helpprotect against respiratory diseases.
To get started with meditation, try setting your alarm just five minutes earlier in the morning.
Sit up straight and take deep inhales and exhales, focusing on your breath.
Save that time for vacations!
Regular meditators also have shorter colds and flus than those who don’t meditate.
Meditation may even save you a little money this holiday season.
“Omega-3 fatty acids promote blood flow and the production of anti-inflammatory substances.”
If you already feel that tickle in the back of your throat, don’t fear!
Whip up your grandma’s chicken soup and rest.
Turns out chicken soup isn’t just comforting when you’re sick.
It actually contains properties thatkill the germsthat cause respiratory illnesses!
And while your soup simmers, toss in some flu-fighting spices.
Ginger can protect againstrhinovirus, the virus responsible for causing the common cold.
Garlic also works as an antiviral andboosts the immune system.
Of course, never share anything that touches your mouth like drinks or chapstick.
It’s also important to avoid touching anything that your sick friend has touched.
Same goes for shaking hands with someone who is ill. ensure you’ve been fever-free for24 hoursbefore getting back to work or school.
Stay home and binge watchReal Housewives?
Okay, twist our arm!
I do not want to bring home any souvenirs from the hospital!
“It can lower blood pressure, improve immune function and facilitate more efficient sleep.”
Practicing gratitude boosts your immune system.
One study looking at law students found that students who reported feeling optimistic hadenhanced immune systems.
