It is that time of the year. The time where germs are passed and the flu is common. Hopefully everyone got their flu shot for the season, but if you didn’t then you need to be conscientious about taking care of yourself. Here are some reminders on how to prevent sickness:
Get plenty of sleep
It is important for your health to get enough sleep. This means going to bed earlier so that when you wake up in the morning you feel refreshed and ready to go. When you aren’t getting enough sleep you are more susceptible to germs and getting sick. So get plenty of rest.
Exercise & Keep Active
It is important to make time to exercise. It is important to not sit around all the time. This time of the year is hard because the weather tends to be colder, but do not forget that we have a gym right here on campus.
Eat Healthy
Eating healthy can also help prevent you from getting sick. Find foods that are better for your body. It is okay to eat burgers and other junk food once in a while, but it is important to only eat these kinds of food once in awhile.
Stay Hydrated
Keep the liquids coming. It is important to drink water throughout your day. If you are unsure of the health benefits or how much water to drink during the day, then I encourage you to check out
Water: How much should you drink every day?
Water is essential to good health, yet needs vary by individual. These guidelines can help ensure you drink enough fluids. By Mayo Clinic Staff How much water should you drink each day? It’s a simple question with no easy answer. Studies have produced varying recommendations over the years.
Clean Your Living Space Often
This one isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you think about staying healthy. It is important though to keep your living space clean though. This will help prevent germs from spreading and make you feel better.
Listen to Your Body
Don’t forget to always pay attention to what you are feeling. If you don’t feel well then take some time to rest and recuperate. You shouldn’t push yourself when you are not feeling well or when you are overly tired.
Wash your hands
This one goes without saying; wash your hands throughout the day. You should keep hand sanitizer in your backpack or purse so that when you can’t get to a sink you at least have some way of keeping your hands clean.
Avoid caffeine and sugary drinks
This one has been mentioned in other posts, but it is extremely important. Try to stick to water during the day. If you can’t give up caffeine completely then limit yourself to one cup per day.
Relax
Find time to relax and take a break from the hustle and bustle of college life. I recommended finding at least one day per week to just relax. This may not be possible for everyone’s schedule. If not then take a few hours one day to not worry and just relax.
Skipping Meals?
There have been studies conducted that show eating three square meals a day is not as important as we were told growing up. It is more important to focus on what you are eating and the amount you are eating.
Is 3 Meals a Day the Only Way?
The number of meals you eat may not be so important. How you eat those meals is what matters most when it comes to decreasing the risk of heart disease and other health problems that come along with being overweight.
Do not forget that Millersville University has the Health Services. If you are not feeling well then go and see them. Here is a link to their page:
Health Services
Millersville University Health Services is dedicated to ensuring a healthy living and studying environment at Millersville University. Academic success and personal growth can only be enhanced through a healthy campus community. Health Services is committed to promote healthy lifestyle choices, preventative medicine, and health education.
It is crucial that you take care of yourself.