The cold air is upon us! In fact, there are people in Southeast Texas who have joked by saying, “December 26, 2015 was the day Texas saw all four seasons in just one day.” The Nova Medical Centers’ corporate office is located in Houston. So, we can attest to the reality at hand. One day we had the air conditioning roaring and the next day it’s sweaters and coats. So, with the ever-changing temperature, how do you keep you and your family healthy? In addition, if you’re an employer, how do you instill healthy habits for a productive workforce?
Here are a few habits to include in your daily routine to help keep you healthy:
- Up your vitamin intake: Remember taking those Flinstone vitamins as a child? Get back into the habit of taking a multi-vitamin every day. For those who are still a kid at heart, they come in gummy flavors too. How about making it a family thing? Carve out a time each day where everyone in your family “gets their vitamin.” Who knows? Maybe your children will start reminding YOU to take your daily vitamin.
- Wash your hands frequently: This is a no brainer, especially during cold and flu season. The number one way to prevent spreading germs and viruses is by washing your hands thoroughly. It protects you from all the germs you’re unable to see and helps protect those around you… like co-workers. The last thing employers need is for everyone in the department to go down with the flu. Remember to wash by scrubbing with hand soap for 20-30 seconds. Go ahead and sing the “Happy Birthday” song in your head while you do it.
- Sleep: It’s that simple. A good night’s sleep restores the immune system and it’s one of the best ways to stay healthy. Aim to getting eight hours a day. I’m a Mom and I know sometimes that is impossible, but I also know that some households can’t afford to get sick. That means, taking a sick day (sometimes unpaid), doctor bills, and medications all add up. That alone motivates me to get my ZZZZs in every day.
- Cough into your elbow: Prevent spreading germs by sneezing and coughing into the inside of your elbow. Also, while completely and utterly obvious, turn away from people when you cough. Nobody wants to get coughed on. Look at it as a way of protecting your co-workers, friends, and family. It keeps your hands cleaner and potential viruses at bay.
- Eat the right foods: I know. I know. Winter means the holidays and the holidays mean your grandmothers’ famous cherry cheesecake, but fueling yourself with fruits and veggies gives your body the nutrients it needs to fight off potential viruses poking their dirty little head around the corner.
- Drink water: Drinking plenty of water keeps you hydrated and keeps your energy levels up. It also flushes out toxins from your body while benefiting your skin.
These are just a few easy habits to keep in mind and make routine in your life throughout the year, but especially during cold and flu season. What are some ways you keep you and your family healthy? Employers… how do you cultivate a healthy culture within your organization? Tell us your successful techniques for a happy and healthy workplace.
Sara Patterson is the Social Media Manager for Nova Medical Centers. With more than 8 years working with clients in the social media industry, she now manages the digital aspect of Nova Medical Centers through online marketing, social media, and web content.
You can follow her on Twitter @SocialNewsSara as well as our corporate account @NovaMedicalCenters.
