The end of the year is often a time of reflection. With reflection comes a renewed sense of the importance of wellness. With all that’s gone on in 2020, it’s become a necessity to take care of ourselves and prioritize our health. From diet and exercise to mental health, to family matters, to our careers, members of our GoPivot team weigh in on how they’re practicing self-care this holiday season.
Pivoteer: Halley Dodge
While wellness has always been a priority for me, I’ve doubled down on protecting my immunity with self-care as winter and the holidays approach. I have been drinking a ton of water and hot herbal tea with lemon, focusing on getting plenty of Vitamin C, zinc, and Vitamin D in my diet, moving every day, spending time outdoors, and practicing meditation to keep my stress levels down. As the weather cools down and the heat gets turned on, I’ve also purchased a humidifier to combat the dry air. Research has found that a humidity level of 40% or higher decreased infectivity levels of influenza virus to about 14%.
Pivoteer: Julie Palmer
Optimal health has been my primary focus since my early 20’s for both me and my family; however, I always know there is room for improvement. This season I have increased the vitamins and nutrients that I am adding to my daily smoothies. I have recently added a super greens powder with wheatgrass, kale, moringa, and spirulina, chia and flaxseed blend, and goji berries. Additionally, I am drinking at least one cup of immune support herbal tea each day! Lastly, I am focused on finding more time to do what my body is craving such as a massage or a hot bath.
Pivoteer: Taylor Chlebowski
While I am always looking for some good immune support, I have been hyper-focused this year on nurturing my body’s line of defense! Recently I have been using an essential oil that contains orange peel, clove, cinnamon, eucalyptus, and rosemary. It smells wonderful! In addition, I am making sure that I get plenty of Vitamin C and Zinc in my diet. I have also been focused on moving my body every day – whether it is a planned strength or cardio workout, or just stretching or going for a walk. Finally, I have been trying to limit the time I spend on social media or watching TV and instead reading a book or catching up with a friend. Staying connected to those who matter to you is so good for your mind and soul!
Pivoteer: Suzanne Bailey
As a lifetime athlete, good diet and exercise habits are a way of life for me. I supplement my diet with a probiotic, green powder, zinc, and fish oil. I love the sunshine! Since it gets dark early in the winter, I exercise outdoors midday by paddle boarding, rollerblading, or jogging. I get vitamin D from the sun and dopamine from exercise. Studies show that both are important to immune support, plus the joy it brings me also supports the immune system. In addition, I practice daily meditation. Research indicates that mindfulness meditation increases activity in the prefrontal cortex, right anterior insula, and right hippocampus, the areas of the brain acting as our immune system’s command center. When these parts are stimulated through mindfulness, the immune system functions more effectively. These activities allow me to tap into my “internal pharmacy” for optimal wellness.
Pivoteer: Marisa Segarra
Lately, I’ve been focused on improving my quality and quantity of sleep. I’ve always been more of a night owl, and as a result, I find myself going to bed way too late. Research has shown that a lack of sleep can make it harder for your immune system to function properly, so my goal is to get 7-9 hours of sleep every night. Additionally, I added some vitamin supplements into my diet, with a focus on vitamins C, D, and Zinc. Lastly, I’ve been trying to reduce the amount of daily stress in my life, since stress can suppress the immune system. My favorite ways to de-stress are exercising, walking my dog, or getting lost in a book or TV show.
Pivoteer: Kristin Brock
After getting really sick this year, I’ve doubled down on making sure my body is getting the nutrients it needs to keep my immune defenses up. I try to eat a healthy, well-rounded diet including lots of fruits and veggies, and lately tons of organic leafy greens. I’ve also been making sure I’m getting Vitamins C, D, Zinc, and lots of fiber. I’ve gotten back into an exercise routine, mixing it up with circuits, weightlifting, outdoor run/walks, and yoga – my body already feels better. My plan for the holidays is to rest and relax and get on a good sleep schedule for the new year – that means starting to wind down at a decent time and shut my brain off, reading, and drinking hot tea with honey and lemon.
What strategies are you using for self-care this holiday season?