Winter is coming!

Welcome to the holiday season.  What does this mean to you? Does the hype of the holiday cause you stress?  There can be so many pressures during the holidays, leading to winters in the northern hemisphere, shorter days, cooler weather and expectations.
The winter months are also associated with cold and flu season.   In our society, it is not always possible to stay home during the duration of an illness.  Also, there are times when contagious illnesses are more contagious prior to knowing one is ill.
Keeping up with regular activity and extra holiday obligations may lead to stress, reduced sleep and less desirable food choices.  These may make one more susceptible to becoming sick.  We are all exposed to microbes at school, work, public places and from friends and family.
Good hygiene and frequent hand washing may help reduce exposure to germs and microbes.  Staying away from sick people would be ideal.  Find out work or school policies on sick leave prior to becoming sick to help reduce the stress of decision making in times of illness.  Talking to health practitioners prior to becoming ill can help to be educated on how to make urgent or acute appointments, treatment or prevention options and information on the process of obtaining sick leave letters.
Setting boundaries can help to reduce stress during the holidays.  Using a technique that works for you can become an invaluable tool to help get through the season.  Starting with a simple piece of paper and pen can get the ball rolling quickly.  The following list can get you started on setting up boundaries that work for you, your family and your budget:
•    Finances & budget; needs vs. wants
•    Food choices and staying hydrated
•    Holiday activities
•    Holiday gifts and cards
•    Entertainment
•    Vacation time
•    Family time
•    Children’s activities
•    Self-care
•    Respite
•    Friends and fellowship time
•    Setting boundaries with family; knowing when to draw the line and set limits
•    Simple decorating ideas
•    Immune support techniques
•    R and R; rest and relaxation
•    Pet care
•    Home and yard care
•    Work and home parties
•    Heating and indoor air quality
•    Weight management
•    Physical activity
•    Charity
This blog post is for entertainment purposes only.  This is not meant to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any ailment. For medical advice talk to your primary care practitioner.



Michelle Brown-Echerd, ND
Naturopathic Physician
Owner of Tower of Health, LLC
Phone: 971.407.3684