Tips for a Healthy Holiday Season
By Paul Rothbart
The holiday season brings excitement and the anticipation of good times with family and friends. It's a busy time of year with decorating, shopping for gifts, planning meals, and celebrations. It can certainly be overwhelming. It can also have a negative impact on your health. But you can enjoy a joyous season while staying healthy by taking a few precautions.
Protect Against Illness
The holiday season coincides with the flu season. Being sick will put a damper on the fun. Take the necessary precautions. Getting a flu vaccine in late October or early November is your first line of defense. Make sure to wash your hands frequently and thoroughly. The CDC recommends 20 seconds to remove germs. You can time this by singing Happy Birthday twice. Clean and disinfect surfaces in your home and be wary of touching your face when out in public places. With a little mindfulness, you can avoid getting sick.
Be Careful to Avoid Injury
When shopping, take precautions. Some items may be heavy. Use a cart or ask for assistance from a store employee. Don't carry too many bags or boxes at once. This can strain your back and joints, causing pain and damage. Be careful when loading and unloading vehicles. Twisting and bending can also cause injury. Decorating both inside and outside often involves ladders and step stools. Take all necessary precautions when using them to avoid a fall that could injure you badly.
Fire Safety
It is a fact that most home fires happen in the winter. People use fireplaces, light candles, and do a lot of cooking and baking. Any of these can cause a fire. Use fireplace screens and don't leave candles burning unattended. Never leave the kitchen when you have pots and pans on lit burners and use timers when cooking in the oven. Be cautious with space heaters as they can also cause a fire.
See a Chiropractor
With all of the running around, lifting, and preparations, it's very easy to strain the back or joints. Visiting a chiropractor is definitely something to consider during the holidays. An examination will find any subluxations or other problems and they can then be adjusted, relieving pain. Chiropractic visits can also help prevent problems and a chiropractor can advise you on ways to safely engage in holiday activities.
The holiday season is a time of joy and excitement. It also has potential hazards. Be careful in everything you do and consider a visit to The Joint Chiropractic. You don't need an appointment and seeing a chiropractor may help you have a safe and healthy holiday season. With continued visits, you can carry that health throughout the year.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Canton, Ohio