As the crisp fall air settles in and daylight savings time disrupts our routines, it’s the perfect opportunity to refresh your health routine. This season offers a chance for self-improvement and wellness with new strategies. Here’s how you can reboot your health routine this fall and prepare for the months ahead.
Stay on Top of Vaccinations
Dr. Ivan Jakimovski, a St. Joseph’s Health primary care physician, emphasizes the importance of staying up to date on your vaccinations. “Vaccinations prevent diseases that can be dangerous by working with your body’s natural defenses to build protection and reduce your risk of getting sick.”
As we head into colder months, here are the vaccinations you should consider:
- Flu Shot: Getting your flu shot helps protect you from seasonal influenza and reduces the risk of severe illness.
- COVID-19 Booster: If eligible, consider getting a COVID-19 booster to maintain protection against the virus, especially as new variants emerge and infection numbers increase during the winter months.
- Shingles Vaccination: If you’re over 50, the shingles vaccine is recommended to prevent this painful condition. Keep in mind you need 2 doses separated by 2 to 6 months.
Check with your doctor about other vaccinations that may be appropriate for you before winter sets in, such as the pneumococcal vaccine for those with certain health conditions or older adults.
Set New Fitness Goals
Fall is an excellent time to reassess and set new fitness goals. Use the changing season as an opportunity to set new fitness goals like building strength, increasing endurance, or enhancing your flexibility. The cooler fall temperatures allow you to enjoy outdoor activities like running, hiking, or biking. Remember to layer up in moisture-wicking clothing to stay comfortable.
It’s also a great time to keep your routine fresh by joining a new fitness class or starting a new home workout routine. Setting realistic and attainable fitness goals can greatly impact your motivation and success. It’s about finding activities you enjoy and integrating them into your daily life. Consistency is the key to success.
Incorporate Seasonal Produce
Autumn brings a vibrant array of seasonal produce, including apples, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, and squash. These fall fruits and vegetables not only add rich, beautiful colors to your plate but also pack powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that enhance your health. Incorporating these seasonal gems into your diet can elevate your nutrition and keep your meals diverse and exciting.
Eating produce in season offers other benefits. It tends to have a richer, more robust flavor compared to out-of-season produce. Plus, shopping at local farmers’ markets supports your community and provides the freshest options available. Experiment with new recipes that showcase fall ingredients, and remember that a well-rounded diet, featuring seasonal produce, supports overall wellness and vitality.
Stay Active Despite Daylight Savings
The impending time change can disrupt your routine and make it harder to stay active. Don’t lose your momentum after the clock changes. With a bit of planning, you can find creative ways to get in more movement throughout the day. Consider adjusting your schedule to include early morning workouts. It’s a great way to energize your day.
Not a morning person? Explore lunchtime exercise options or find indoor activities like yoga to keep your body in motion. Another strategy is to find opportunities to incorporate into your day: taking the stairs, going for short walks or taking time to stretch during work breaks can help you maintain your fitness routine even when daylight hours are shorter.
Maintain Your Commitment
With the busy fall season, it’s easy for health goals to be pushed aside. To stay committed, create a structured plan with both short-term and long-term goals. Schedule regular check-ins with yourself to monitor progress and adjust as needed. Enlist support from friends or family to keep you accountable and motivated.
By refreshing your fitness goals, incorporating seasonal produce into your diet, staying active despite the time change, and keeping up with recommended vaccinations, you can successfully navigate the fall season and set a strong foundation for winter. Embrace the season as an opportunity for renewal and wellness and enjoy the benefits of a healthier lifestyle.
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