Get inspired to be more active from now! Yes, the New Year is only a few days away. To start, make a list of five to 10 activities you want to try or get better at next year, such as completing the monkey bars or doing a cartwheel! After you complete each goal, check it off the list and note the date. Ask your parents for some extra encouragement by offering a reward when you complete your list — a trip to your favourite playground, for instance! Now here are some other activities you could undertake to boost your immunity…
You’re already washing your hands, taking vitamins and drinking plenty of water, right? Is there anything else you can do to stay healthier in the next year?
Work up a sweat: Scientists think regular exercise may help your body fight colds and the flu. For a fun-in-numbers spin, schedule a family workout with a fitness DVD, whether funky, like So You Think You Can Dance Get Fit: Cardio Funk, or funny, like Richard Simmons Sweatin’ to the Oldies.
Soak up some rays: Besides helping our bodies absorb calcium and build strong bones, vitamin D can aslo increase immune system cells and fight inflammation. Your body makes vitamin D whenever your skin is exposed to the sunlight, so spend about 15 minutes in the sun without sunscreen three times a week. (But for longer exposures to the sun, put that sunscreen on!)
Chill out: Studies suggest that stress and the hormones it triggers are bad for your immunity. Counter the stress by devoting extra time to relaxation. Create a list of relaxing activities, then make time each week to do them. The positive vibes will make you feel good and maybe healthier as well.