10 easy ways to keep you and your family healthy and feeling great.
You know that slight chill, runny nose, and annoying cough that keeps you house-ridden, miserable, and perpetually catching up on work email? The average American comes down with two to six colds each year, most of which can be prevented. With a little caution and care, there are plenty of things we can do to keep ourselves and those around us clean, healthy, and happy. Here are 10 simple suggestions…
1.
Feel Healthy – A healthy body begins with a healthy mind. Feeling great about yourself makes a huge difference in not just your mental well-being but also your physical appearance and vice versa. Our awareness of our physical state influences our mental well-being. When you begin to care for and about yourself, you’ll be extra careful not to get sick. The right attitude and spirit goes a long way.
2.
Eat Whole Foods – Making meals based on whole foods (whole grains, vegetables and fruits) contain a wide array of nutrients that support and enhance your immune system. Good nutrition not only aids in the defense of and recovery from illnesses, it’s also fundamental in maintaining a happy, healthy, balanced you.
3.
Wash Your Hands – 80% of infections from germs spread through the hands. Washing your hands often and well is the single most important thing you can do to keep germs from leading to infections and sickness. Believe it or not, there is a recommended way to wash your hands: always use soap and scrub for at least 10 seconds with warm water.
4.
Prevention – Strengthening your immune system can be as simple as changing your diet. Next time you whip up a delicious stir fry, add some shiitake mushrooms. Mushrooms contain a powerful antiviral protein that helps fight infections and diseases. Pick up some avocados and grapefruit at the market. They are packed with high levels of vitamins and important nutrients essential for
immune function. 5.
Exercise – A healthy immune system is vital to maintaining our overall well-being. Moderate, regular exercise boosts the immune system and strengthens our defenses against germs. Take the stairs, squeeze in a quick walk at lunch or sign up for that yoga class you’ve been meaning to join but just haven’t gotten around to yet. Feel the difference a little exercise can make for not only your body but mind and spirit.
6.
Feng Shui – While maintaining a healthy internal environment is important for your overall well-being, the environment around you also impacts the way you feel, act, and respond to situations.
Feng Shui is the art of creating balance and harmony in our surroundings. With the understanding that the land is full of living energy, Feng Shui focuses on facilitating a balance of energies in the environment to help bring good health and fortune. The center of your home is your Health area. Decorate this area using earth elements and the color yellow in this area.
7.
Natural Remedies – The next time you feel a slight shiver or sniffle coming along, consider natural solutions instead of reaching for the nearest bottle of medicine. Drink lemon tea with honey, gargle a teaspoon of salt dissolved in warm water, take a steamy shower, drink hot liquids, and just take it easy.
8.
Explore Natural Household Cleaners – Spraying and scrubbing usually seems to do the trick, however chemicals found in common household cleaners may pose a risk for your lungs and your environment. Instead of reaching for that chemical-laden bottle of cleaner, try using an organic cleaner or a
lemon, vinegar, or baking soda to deodorize, remove stains or shine your copper or brass. These common household items offer an alternative solution that’s tough on stains but gentle on your health.
9.
Have Fun – Do you work too much? Ever wonder what happened to your love life? Feeling guilty for neglecting a friend, partner, or child? Juggling work, family, and personal responsibilities seem like a never-ending task but be sure to take care of yourself along the way. Taking a dance class, staying positive, or listening to music are just a couple of ways to help
balance a busy life.
10.
Make Time For Yourself – Devote a little time each day to yourself. Walk away from your desk, turn off your cell phone, and fight the urge to check your email. Take deep breaths in and out. Even if it’s only 5-10 minutes, take the time to relax, slow down, and focus on letting go.
~Christine Chan
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