12 Tips for the 12 Days by Dr. Keener
Everyone knows the 12 days of Christmas. A classic song where 12 lavish gifts are given throughout each day. Since it is the holiday season, I decided to give 12 days of healthy living. 12 tips to help you make some simple healthier choices during this holiday season.
1. Exercise
The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes of exercise a week. Carve some time out of the day to get your exercise in. Exercise has been shown to increase one’s mood and lower one’s blood pressure among various other health benefits. Make sure to continue exercising during this busy season.
2. Get quality sleep
Sleep is an essential part of your wellness. Lack of sleep can affect your mood and increase your risk of getting sick during the holiday season. Aim for eight hours of sleep to be well rested so you can enjoy the fun activities of the holiday season.
3. Stay hydrated
There are often many activities that are occurring during the holiday season. This means that people often forget to drink as much water as they normally do or should. Be sure to carry a bottle of water with you when you are out so that you can remember to stay hydrated.
4. Don’t forget your fruits and vegetables
The holiday season is often filled with lots of candy and sweets. It is okay to eat these in moderation, however, you don’t want to forget your fruits and vegetables. Be sure to focus on getting in your five servings of fruits and vegetables a day so that you can get in your fiber, vitamin, minerals, and antioxidants. These nutrients will keep you going through the holiday season.
5. Stay warm
The weather during this time of the year can be frightful. Be sure to stay warm and dry by bundling up in appropriate outdoor clothing. Bundling up when going outdoors can help to reduce the chance of infections.
6. Take time for yourself
The holiday season comes and goes so quickly that most people don’t take the time to enjoy the season. Be sure to take moments throughout the season and do things that you enjoy.
7. Manage stress
There is a lot of stress during this time of the year. Stress can be harmful to your health. Make sure to try and reduce stress by setting realistic goals, planning ahead, and asking for help. Make sure to try stress relieving techniques as well such as meditation and exercise.
8. Wash your hands
Gifts are passed around during this time of the year, and so are many germs. The best way to help reduce the spread of infections is proper hygiene including washing your hands.
9. Get Vaccinated
Getting your flu and COVID vaccines are a great way to help prevent you or your loved one’s from getting sick from these common infections that are going around. Vaccines can be a challenging topic. At EuDoc our members have easy access to ask their doctor about the vaccines and share concerns they have.
10. Eat mindfully
Be sure to listen to your body when you are truly hungry versus when you are bored or stressed. Holiday platters can also be appealing to continue to eat when you are not even hungry. Be sure to listen to your body and whether you are actually hungry or not.
11. Be thankful
This time of the year reminds us to be thankful for those that are in our life. Be sure to show gratitude towards others. Studies have shown that people who are more grateful and optimistic have less health concerns, sleep better and have stronger immune systems.
12. Enjoy the holidays
This time of the year is a great time to be able to reconnect with friends and family. These interactions can make us feel content and increase one’s well-being. Be sure to enjoy the holidays with the ones that you love.
Have a wonderful holiday season and a happy, healthy new year!
