6 Ways To Stay Healthy This Holiday Season

The holiday season is all about catching up with friends and family, enjoying great food, and, dodging germs. Want to make it through without catching a cold or the flu? Here are six easy tips to keep you feeling your best:

1. Get Enough Sleep

Skipping sleep wears down your immune system and makes you more likely to get sick. Aim for 7-8 hours of shut-eye every night to stay strong and healthy.

2. Wash Your Hands 

Your hands pick up germs from just about everything you touch, and they can easily make their way into your body. Stick to soap and hot water to wash them away. Hand sanitizer works in a pinch, but it’s not as effective, so use hand sanitizer as a last resort.

3. Skip the Kisses If Someone’s Sick

As much as you’ve missed your relatives, maybe hold off on the kisses if someone’s feeling under the weather or has been recently. A hug or handshake still says, “I love you,” without as much of a risk of germs.

4. Take a Breather

Stress can mess with your immune system, so don’t let the holiday craziness get to you. Find little ways to relax, like listening to holiday music, doing yoga, or taking a walk. Whatever helps you unwind, make time for it.

5. Stay Moving

Exercise can give your immune system a nice boost and help you de-stress at the same time. Don’t just sit on the couch all season, try walking, sledding, ice skating, or anything else that keeps you active and in the holiday spirit.

6. Eat Well and Stay Hydrated

Fill up on fruits and veggies to keep your body fueled and your immune system happy. Planning meals ahead of time can help you avoid falling into the fast-food trap when things get busy. And don’t stress about indulging at big meals, it’s what you do most of the time that matters, not just one day.