Warding Off Colds DC

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This time of year always brings about the nasty, sniffling, sneezing, so you-can’t-get-rest feeling. If you’re lucky you’ll dodge it, but many of us find that before long we are laid up and relaxation is forced upon us.
Thankfully there are a few things that you can do to help ward off colds and the flu. It involves a healthy dose of precaution to help keep your immune system strong in order to fight off all the unhealthy bugs that thrive during this time of year.

Get enough sleep. I admit this is a tough one for our overworked society, but it is an important factor to preventing cold and flu bugs from wreaking havoc on your healthy life. Each of us is different when it comes to how much sleep we need. When you feel that tingle in your throat maybe it’s time to cuddle up on the couch with a good book and allow yourself to doze off—all your paper work and to-do list items will be there when you awaken. Having trouble falling asleep? Experts say, turn off the television a couple of hours before bed, avoid caffeine, and don’t eat or drink just prior to hitting the sack.

Give the dog a rub. Yes, according to a 2004 study, spending a few minutes a day petting your pet can help to increase your immune system—this gives true meaning to why a dog truly is “man’s best friend”. The logic behind it is that spending time enjoying and loving an animal reduces stress and keeps our immune system healthy.
Take some much needed time for yourself. This is a very difficult thing for many people to do. With kids’ schedules, working long hours, volunteering/charity work, and family commitments—most of us are left wondering when is there any time for me?

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