If you're anything like all of us in Arizona, you welcome fall. In fact, you crave it. The summer heat's grown old and it's time for a change. We want cooler weather, sweaters, hoodies, and changing leaves. But we don't want any of the coughs, colds or sniffles that often come with the switching of seasons.
So, let's get to work quick! It's time to fortify our immune systems this fall so we can savor every little sip and bite of pumpkin laced goodies all autumn long.
1) Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize
Cooler weather, darker days, wind, and rain can wreak havoc on your skin. Skin is the body's largest organ after all, and a natural barrier of defense. Don't let the elements compromise the skin's ability to do what it does best. Fight off dry, irritable, weather-worn skin with a quality lotion or moisturizer.
2) Supplement Your Vitamin D
The days are getting shorter and so are your chances of getting quality sun exposure - especially if you commute, work in an office or live somewhere with inclement weather. All this to say, you'll want to consider replenishing your Vitamin D with a quality supplement. Thankfully, we've got just the thing.
3) Sanitize and Vaccinate
Flu season is freaking relentless. Wash those hands with warm soap and water every chance you get, and really consider getting family flu shots if it aligns with your beliefs. Many employers, community centers and local drug stores offer vaccinations this time of year for free or drastically reduced costs.
4) Feast On Seasonal Fruits and Veggies
The following are considered autumn foods and are very rich in quality vitamins and nutrients:
- Apples
- Artichoke
- Brocolli
- Carrots
- Cabbage
- Chard
- Cranberry
- Eggplant
- Grapes
- Kale
- Lime
- Mushrooms
- Pears
- Pumpkin (shocker!)
- Spinach
- Sweet Potato
- Zucchini
5) Stay Serious About Sleep
Things pick up this time of year. It's tempting to sacrifice sleep as a means to participate or complete everything going on. And, the shorter daylight hours don't exactly help in terms of maintaining your typical waking/sleeping hours. They can sort of throw everything out of whack. This probably isn't new news to you, but it's highly recommended you shoot for 8 hours of sleep each night. These hours are crucial to your body's ability to recover and heal. So, stay serious about your sleep.
6) Stay Proactive, Not Reactive
Keep a bottle of On Set in the household. When you first notice a sniffle or hear of "a bug going around the office" or "a lot of kids going home sick lately", reach for this strategic blend of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and herbs. It's like "Nature's Defense System"!
Stay strong, happy and healthy this fall. Follow these 6 tips, maintain your fitness programs and fend all the germs and funk away from your household this time of year.
It's time to enjoy autumn in all its glory!
