Keep an Eye on Your Health This Season

By Donna Stark

There are so many wonderful things to look forward to in the fall. The perfectly cool temperatures, the sweet pumpkin-flavored drinks at the local coffee shop, and the exciting football games over the weekends. Basically, fall is the season of chilly days filled with good warm food and good times. So how on Earth could anyone not like it? Well, fall is also the time of year that marks the beginning of poor health and stressful days, and for some people, that's all it takes to ruin a season of games at their favorite stadium.

The Downsides to Fall

When you think of changes that occur in the fall, you may immediately think of the weather and the clothes you wear, but there are a lot more changes than those and some of them can significantly affect your health and lifestyle. Take a look.

• Sleep - With shorter days and longer nights, our natural circadian rhythm can get off track and we may end up sleeping more than usual. That may sound like heaven for some people, but it could be a recipe for disaster if you let sleep take over your days. It's important to keep your routine as normal as possible and to continue going to bed and waking up at the same time.
• Stress - For anyone that struggles with stress, the fall season may be a particularly difficult time. Schools are once again in full-swing, holiday events are right around the corner, and the costs of travel, entertaining, and gifts can be terrifying to think about. If these are the things that keep you awake at night, be sure to ask for help and support or utilize some healthy strategies that can get you through the next few months.
• Illness - Whether it's with a football or a pile of leaves, most of us love to play in the fall, but nobody likes to play around with the flu or with seasonal allergies, so be prepared! Don't act surprised when you are stuck in bed, clinging to a box of tissues, and crying for your mother when you don't take care of yourself. Stay a step ahead of any illness this year by consuming a nutritious diet, drinking plenty of water, washing your hands repeatedly throughout the day, getting adequate rest, and taking any other necessary precautions that your doctor recommends.

Surviving the Fall Season

Don't let all of the changes that occur during the fall season change your attitude toward this time of year! With just a few simple precautions and some healthy behaviors, you can be sure to survive the next couple of months completely unscathed. In fact, you may even be able to enjoy that cup of pumpkin coffee too!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Littleton, Colo.