Stocking Your Winter Wellness Arsenal
This is your Wellness Wake Up Call with University of Illinois Extension.
Prioritizing self-care and assessing your needs is vital for a healthy winter season. Build your winter wellness arsenal with these 10 tips:
- Nutrient-Rich Diet: Focus on whole foods before relying on supplements. Nutrients in their natural form often work synergistically for better health.
- Vitamin Supplements: Consider vitamin D to counter reduced sunlight exposure, along with zinc, vitamin C, and echinacea to support immunity and mood.
- Regular Exercise: Stay active with indoor workouts, fitness classes, or outdoor activities like brisk walks or cross-country skiing. Exercise boosts your mood and immune system.
- Adequate Sleep: Stick to a consistent sleep schedule to strengthen your immune system. Foods rich in magnesium, vitamin D, and omega-3s can aid sleep quality.
- Hand Hygiene: Frequent handwashing is key during cold and flu season to reduce germ spread.
- Skin Care: Combat dryness with natural balms and oils, which retain moisture better than lotions.
- Relaxation: Make time for downtime amid holiday stress. Activities like reading, bathing, or hobbies can help you recharge.
- Hydration: Stay hydrated with water, herbal teas, or soups to combat dry winter air.
- Respiratory Health: Use a humidifier to prevent dryness and maintain comfortable air quality.
- Stay Prepared: Keep informed of weather updates and stock emergency kits for unexpected situations.
This week, identify 2 or 3 things you can implement to jump-start your winter wellness plan.
Thank you for listening! I hope you have a happy and healthy day ahead. This has been Kristin Bogdonas, nutrition and wellness educator for University of Illinois Extension.