Everyone is decking the halls, holiday shopping and generally making merry. The holiday season can be magical and filled with family and fun. It can also be busy and stressful, a prime time to catch a cold with cold and flu season going around, and also a time for over indulging! Here are some tips to keep your family healthy so you can enjoy a happy holiday season.
First things first! Try to keep your family healthy during this holiday season. Fall and winter are prime cold and flu season. Kids are in school, people are overworked, and busy bustling from one activity to the next and it is so easy to get sick, which can really put a cramp in your holiday plans. There are a few simple things you can do to help! Always wash your hands, and often. Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. Get enough sleep, when you are overtired you can get run down and it is easier to get sick.
Many people travel around the holidays, and also are more active socially, going to holiday parties and activities. Travel safely during the holidays. Never drink and drive. Never ride with someone who has been drinking. Always wear your seatbelt. Make sure your child is safely buckled in a seat appropriate for his or her age and size. Take the time even during the holidays to follow these driving guidelines. The roads are clogged with people running from one holiday activity to another, making accidents more likely. Take the time to slow down and drive carefully.
Winter months are also the most common time for house fires. Practice good safety at home, especially with Christmas lights and holiday candles. Never use generators or grills inside your house or garage. Make sure you have smoke detectors installed and that the batteries are working properly.
While it is important to celebrate and enjoy the holiday season with friends and family- try to eat healthy and remain active. Even if you can’t keep up your normal exercise routine, try to fit in at least 2 ½ hours a week-a little exercise can help relieve stress and keep your body and mind active. Follow this advice, and you are sure to have a happy and healthy holiday!