Where has the first half of the year gone? It seems like we were feeling the sting of the sun on our skin, and the waft of barbecue filled the air just minutes ago. Now, BAM! Short days, long sleeves and we’re getting the slow cooker out.
As winter descends upon us (we know, it’s worse for us in the southern states… please refrain from being smug, Queenslanders 🙄), public transport becomes a Petrie dish for transmissible germs and you risk being bestowed an unwelcome bug that can really knock you for six.
While it would be nice to sequester yourself away for the colder months, in a WFH uniform of Ugg boots and hoodie, that’s not always possible. So the best way through the season is to arm yourself with a strong body, boosted immunity and a good attitude (I’m looking at you, man-flu sufferers).
Thankfully, there are many things you can do to prepare yourself not let a pesky virus wipe you out for days.
Catch Me if You Can
Flu season is nipping at our heels, so give yourself the best shot at outrunning it with a flu shot.
The Clicks Group offers all Clicks and INDEX contractors and consultants a free flu vaccination every year, and yours should have landed in your inbox already.
If you haven’t received an email, please reach out to your Contractor Care Consultant, and we will remedy that promptly.
Give Yourself a Boost
Numerous studies show that you can boost your natural immunity with:
- regular moderate exercise
- the intake of a variety of vitamins and minerals
- keeping alcohol and smoking to a minimum
A healthy and strong immune system can ward off viruses and bacteria before they take you out, or fight them off quicker.
If you’re already feeling a bit under the weather, make sure you don’t overdo the exercise while your body is trying to recuperate. Gentler programs that incorporate yoga and walking can keep the body moving without stressing your system.
Don’t Sleep on Sleep
Your body does its best work while you rest.
Sleep is essential for keeping your immune system strong and effective. During sleep, your body produces and releases proteins called cytokines, which help fight infection, inflammation and stress. Sleep also supports the production and function of white blood cells, which defend against viruses and bacteria. Not getting enough sleep actually weakens your immune response, making you more susceptible to colds and flu and slowing down recovery.
Keep it Fluid
Fluids are essentials for our bodies to function best.
Drinking water during the cooler months hits a little different, so have your water hot, and pop in a tea bag of your choice. Choose a tea with additional health benefits, and you’re doing double the work.
- Black Tea perfect for cold weather, black tea can improve blood circulation and provide a comforting warmth.
- Ginger Tea Ginger is known for its warming properties. Drinking ginger tea can help improve circulation and soothe sore throats. It’s also great for digestion and can reduce nausea.
- Lemongrass Tea Lemongrass tea has a mild citrus flavour and is known for its antimicrobial properties and potential to protect against inflammation. You can find a Lemongrass and Ginger tea in most supermarket aisles to combines these benefits into one delicious drop.
- Peppermint Tea Peppermint is refreshing and can help relieve sinus congestion and improve digestion. It’s a great choice for after meals.
- Green Tea Rich in antioxidants, green tea can help strengthen your immune system and protect against seasonal illnesses. It’s also known for its light, refreshing taste.
- Hibiscus Tea This tea is high in vitamin C and antioxidants, making it a great choice for boosting your immune system and promoting overall well-being.
- Chamomile Tea This herbal tea is perfect for relaxing and improving sleep quality. It has calming properties that can help reduce stress and anxiety. A great tea to have before bed.
If You Still Get Caught
Sometimes you can’t outrun it. If you find yourself struck down, do your best tohave a plan in place, or ask for help. There is nothing worse than trying to multitask juggling tissues, cough medicine and healthy ideas for dinner while feeling ill.
And do not underestimate the power of a good, warm, nurturing soup to heal many ills. This Immune boosting chicken noodle soup has ingredients that will help you feel good and is pretty delicious, which will help you feel good. Do a big batch cook and keep0 some in the freezer to have on hand while you’re trying to recover. Future you will thank you for it.
If soup is not your thing, get juicing. These Immunity juices are a handy source of nutrients, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants delivered that you can chug downto charge up.
Walk into Winter Well
Taking these steps to prepare yourself for the season is your best defence against the winter woes, and like every year, it will be over before you know it. So, zip up your puffers (or for the northern staters, maybe opt for a longer sleeve 🙄) and let’s power through.