Fall is creeping upon us, which means cooler weather, comfy sweaters, changing leaves—and cold and flu season. Additionally, many health professional expect a surge in COVID-19 cases this year in the fall months, alongside the normal spike in cold and flu cases. This year, more than ever, it’s important that you take steps to preserve your health as the weather cools down. Here are some helpful tips to help you do that, from basic hygiene tips to general lifestyle suggestions. Contact us to learn more about proper skin care education in Baltimore, MD.
Wear a Mask
Time and again, the CDC has stressed the importance of wearing a mask in helping to control the spread of COVID-19. At this time of year, wearing a mask can make a huge difference in containing the spread of this virus. Please, wear a mask in public settings and social distance whenever it is feasible. These simple steps can go a long way towards helping keep not only you but those around you healthy.
Boost Your Immune System
As cold and flu season approaches, it’s important to do what you can to boost your immune system. A few basic changes you can make include trying to drink more water and washing your hands regularly. You should also make efforts to maintain an active lifestyle and eat healthy foods. Try adding more citrus, leafy greens, yogurt, and other immune-boosting foods to your diet as well.
Spend Time Outdoors
The weather is cooling off, which makes this a great time of year to get outside and enjoy the great outdoors. Go on a hike, take a walk around the park, or just spend some time out in the yard. Doing so is good for your mental health, and helps you to get that ever-important vitamin D from the sun before the days get too short and cold.
Make Time for Self-Care
Self-care is incredibly important for your mental health. Taking even a few minutes each day to focus on yourself can help to reduce stress—and stress can actually weaken your immune system, so managing stress levels is essential to staying healthy. Find something that helps you relax, whether it’s exercise, a bubble bath, meditation, or getting a massage. Do something small for yourself every day, and consider treating yourself in a larger way every few weeks.
Be Active
As the weather gets colder, many people tend to hunker down inside. However, staying active is a cornerstone of good health. Find ways that you can stay active, even if you can’t enjoy an outdoor run anymore. Look for online fitness courses, join a gym, or invest in exercise equipment of your own.
Care for Your Skin
Don’t let winter destroy your skin! Winter can be extremely harsh on your delicate skin, especially in drier climates. It can sap the moisture right out of your skin and leave it dry, itchy, and irritated. Make sure to moisturize regularly, preferably with a lotion that contains SPF protection—because, yes, you can get a sunburn even in the winter.
If you would like to learn more about skin care programs in Baltimore, MD, contact the Cortiva Institute Massage Therapy & Skin Care School today.