With the sun and the rain playing tug of war during this period, health issues arise as the body tries to adapt to fluctuations in temperature and humidity. And, then comes the spate of seasonal illnesses—cold, flu, viral fever, body aches, and the more serious ones like dengue, typhoid, etc. Few simple preventive strategies listed below can help us stay healthy during this season:
1. Eat healthy: Consume home-made, freshly cooked food. Making your own meal helps eliminate any form of food contamination as one follows cleanliness and hygiene. Wash raw food items like fruits thoroughly before consumption. Cook food at a temperature that is high enough to kill any form of virus or bacteria. Avoid outside food as much as possible, and steer clear of roadside food given the low level of hygiene practiced by food vendors. Opt for foods that are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, like leafy greens, sprouts, berries, apples, nuts, etc. Include Vitamin C supplements or fruits like oranges, sweet limes, and lemons in the diet as they help boost the immune system.
2. Stay hydrated: It is always important to stay hydrated, as water helps regulate our body temperature, deliver nutrients to different parts, and effectively flush out toxins from our system. Have clean, filtered, and boiled water, as liquids are most prone to contamination. Carry a personal water bottle and avoid drinking water from unknown sources. You can also opt for water infused with herbs or fruit for added benefits and taste. Keep caffeinated drinks like tea, coffee, and colas to a minimum and opt for fruit and vegetable juices or herbal teas instead.
3. Maintain hygiene: Maintaining personal hygiene and keeping your surroundings clean is always vital but needs extra attention during this period. Follow COVID hygiene practices in this season of contagious diseases. Wash your hands frequently, avoid touching surfaces, stay away from crowds, wear a mask outdoors, avoid close contact with people, and do not share food, drinks or personal items. Take a hot shower whenever you come home from work, exercise, or after visiting crowded places. Use anti-bacterial surface cleaners to keep your workplace, home, and surroundings clean and safe.
4. Exercise and Meditate: Moderate physical activity along with meditation is excellent for enhancing the immune system. It is important to stay consistent. Excessive and strenuous workouts that leave you feeling exhausted are usually not sustainable in the long term. Simple workouts that can be done in the comfort of your home are ideal, as they cannot be avoided with the ‘lack of time’ and ‘bad weather’ excuse. The time that you devote to your mind and body helps relieve both physical and mental stress and enables the body to recover and regenerate.
5. Have a sleep routine: A sleep routine is as important as your daytime work routine. This is because the body goes into a healing mode as you sleep. Lack of sleep time or not getting quality sleep can leave you feeling irritable, tired, and lethargic. Inadequate quality sleep also adversely affects the immune system, making you susceptible to infections and diseases. Devise a sleep routine and follow it religiously. Go to bed at around the same time every day. Log off work and electrical devices at least an hour before bedtime to allow your body to gradually wind down. Simple stretching exercises, deep breathing, and meditation can help you comfortably ease into blissful slumber.
6. Listen to your body: Never take your body for granted. Pay attention to what the body is trying to tell you. Do not ignore signals and continue pushing the system till it starts revolting. If you are feeling tired or unwell, take rest. If your stomach is protesting, check your diet. If your throat is sore, drink warm water and do salt gargles. Your body is your steadfast companion in the journey of life. Respect it and treat it well, and it will surely return the favour.
