The winter holidays are upon us and for many of us, our thoughts are on family, friends, food, decorating, and shopping. Along with all the joyous thoughts comes the “to do list.” Our to do list seems to grow instead of diminish as the holidays draw closer. Now this may sound selfish, but we must add ourselves to the list of things to do. In fact, we need to be at the top of the list –who wants to be injured or sick during the holidays?

1. Rest

The busier we are, the more crucial time-out to rest and renew is. A good night's sleep will do wonders for reducing stress and keeping us healthy during the holiday rush. Getting rest also includes taking time out to relax and unwind.

2. Stay hydrated

Making sure to drink enough water will go a long way in helping to keep you healthy. Drinking water helps to keep things moving through our bodies. It aids in flushing out toxins and bacteria, and keeps fluids in our body at the right consistency to flow and remove waste that could cause illness. As an added bonus, drinking water before that big meal can help you not to overeat.

3. Exercise

If you have a regular exercise routine stick to it as closely as possible. In addition to burning the excess calories that come with the holiday parties and gatherings, exercise improves overall fitness, which can help boost your immune system, helping the body fight against infections. Physical activity may help flush bacteria out of the lungs and airways. This may reduce your chance of getting a cold, flu, or other illness. Exercise also increases energy and boosts our mood.

4. Safety

Part of being healthy is being safe. Emergency Rooms are busy this time of year, treating food-related illnesses, burns, falls, electric shocks, etc. It is very important during this time to focus on safety. Also, remember to practice safe food-handling. Food poisoning occurs quite frequently during the holidays.

5. Wash hands

Be sure to wash your hands frequently. We will be touching many surfaces that will be home to bacteria and viruses, just waiting to spend the holidays with you. Frequent hand washing will make you a less likely host. A cold or virus is not the gift you want to be exchanging. It will start a long chain of regifting.

6. Eat healthy

Yes, you can have your pie and eat it too. But be sure to eat your fruits and veggies. Let’s add these 6 tips to the top of our “to do list” so that we can enjoy safe and healthy holidays!