For many of us living in the U.S, winter brings earlier sunsets and days that seem to drag on. It is as important as ever to maintain a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet. Avoid the winter blues and remain dedicated to self-care! Below, we have gathered 8 tips for you to stay fit and fresh this winter—without the need to hibernate until spring!
1. Hydration is Key
You’ve heard it before, drinking water may be the cure-all for your temporary symptoms. Experts suggest drinking at least half of your body weight in ounces of water (according to Dr. Nessler). If you’re not a fan of the bland taste, try tea or flavorings to spruce up your taste buds! For more tips to drink more water, visit here.
2. Take Your Vitamins
With the lack of sun comes a lack of vitamin D. Taking multivitamins may be beneficial for your overall health and mood. If you are consistently tired throughout the day, you may be deficient in a necessary vitamin! They come in different forms, such as gummies, that are super easy (and fun) to take! Please refer to the CDC’s Micronutrient Facts for more info on specific vitamins, minerals, and their functions.
3. Stick to a Routine
More important than resisting desserts or a one-time workout–in the long run–is maintaining a routine. Routines promote positive self-care habits—especially during stressful times of being in college during a pandemic. Whether that’s doing your nighttime skincare, going on your daily walk, or waking up at the same time every morning; experts suggest consistent behavior will be beneficial for maintaining stress and living a healthy lifestyle. As the popular saying goes, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away!” For more info on creating healthy habits, refer here: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6378489/.
4. Get Consistent Sleep
Coinciding with maintaining a routine includes your sleeping habits. Lack of sleep can affect your health and wellbeing. For adults 16-60 years old, the CDC recommends 7 or more hours of sleep per night. Be sure to get enough zzz’s in every night to feel refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to take on the day!
5. Stay Movin’
Again, leave the hibernating for the bears. It is important to stay active throughout the year. During the winter, exercising regularly may include going to the gym, your daily walk, doing 10 jumping jacks in your apartment every day, or finding the activities that best fit you. The benefits are that “physical activity helps you feel better, function better, and sleep better. It also reduces anxiety.”
6. Keep a Nutritious Diet
Your eating habits are very personal. It is important to stick to what makes you feel great. In addition, the CDC suggests getting in an array of healthy foods including the 5 food groups for a balanced diet. USDA’s MyPlate Plan can assist you with finding balance and portions depending on your age and weight. For more info, check out the CDC’s Healthy Eating for a Healthy Weight.
7. Avoid the Plagues
With the many sicknesses roaming around—COVID-19, the flu, and other viral colds—it is important to maintain healthy hygiene. Wash your hands, stay away from those that are sick, and keep masked when necessary to stay healthy.
Having health insurance this time also remains very crucial. At ISO, we not only offer affordable coverage but provide you with the necessary support for international visitors.
For more info on COVID-19, check out our blog.
8. Regulate your Stress Levels
This may seem like the most difficult one, especially in college, however, not impossible! Get your schoolwork done early to avoid busy deadlines and all-nighters. Your health will thank you!
If winter has got you down, just remember, there’s a month left until the clocks move forward and the sun sets an hour later. The weather will get warmer—let’s make sure our bodies are taken care of till then!
Please note this is not medical advice, please consult your doctor for any medical info.
