Tips to Stay Safe and Healthy During the Holidays
Keep health and wellness top-of-mind this holiday season!
The holiday season will soon be upon us, ushering in a time of family get-togethers and festive activities. But the rush of the holidays also brings several health and safety risks. To help you navigate the holidays, the following tips can help the community celebrate the holidays safely.
GET A FLU SHOT
As COVID-19 continues to dominate the headlines, do not forget about flu season, which could be especially dangerous thanks to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. While there is not yet a vaccine for COVID-19, the annual flu shot continues to be an effective way to help protect yourself and the community from influenza.
According to health officials, it is possible to become sick with both the flu and COVID-19 at the same time. The effects of infection with both viruses at the same time are not yet well known and could be especially dangerous.
The CDC urges people of all ages to get vaccinated annually. Seniors age 65 and older, pregnant women, and children under the age of two are particularly vulnerable to the flu.
DO NOT LET STRESS DRAG YOU DOWN
The holiday season is notorious for adding burden to schedules. From the rush to get things done at work to travel obligations and preparing for company, stress can significantly impact a person’s body, mood, and behavior.
Identifying stresses in your life is the first step. While at work, it can be helpful to save the easier tasks for the end of the day to allow yourself to relax before heading home. It is also important to make time for yourself each day by taking breaks for meals.
Exercise is also a great way to relieve stress. Stretching, short walks and other forms of physical activity can be extremely therapeutic and can promote your physical and mental well-being.
KEEP YOUR DIET TOP OF MIND
It is not uncommon to gain a little weight during the holidays. Typically, people gain about one pound between Thanksgiving and the new year. While that may not seem like a lot, few people lose that one pound, and over several years the weight can add up.
To prevent weight gain, it is important to keep in mind the ingredients of the foods you eat and how they may impact your health and diet.
Since we often eat with our eyes and not with our minds, it is important to constantly be aware of what we are eating and how it will impact our diets.
Focusing more on greens and less on heavy gravy and sweets can also help. Practice control when it comes to sugary foods and drinks. This is especially important for those with certain health conditions, such as diabetes.
BE AWARE OF AGE-APPROPRIATE GIFTS
Children often look forward all year to the toys they receive as presents during the holidays. However, certain toys can pose serious threats if not purchased with age in mind. Each year, hundreds of toys are recalled due to high lead levels, choking hazards and other serious risks.
When shopping for gifts during the holidays – and year-round – it is important to shop for items suitable for the age, abilities, skills, and interests of children to help reduce harm. When possible, it is recommended that you do your research before making purchase decisions.
For example, a stuffed animal with plastic eyes or small buttons is inappropriate for babies and small toddlers, as they could pose a choking hazard.
NO DRINKING OR TEXTING ON THE ROAD
Weather can change quickly during the winter months. Whether you are traveling near home or across the nation, always be prepared by making sure your vehicle is up to date on all regular maintenance and inspections.
If attending holiday parties, remember to have a designated driver if you plan to drink alcohol. Know your limits and consider making alternate travel arrangements if necessary.
Do not forget to put down the phone. According to the National Safety Council, one in four traffic accidents is caused by cell phones and mobile devices.
Whether it is texting or casual chatter, cell phones pose a danger when used while driving. It is advised that you put your mobile device away when driving and refrain from answering calls or texts until you have reached your destination.