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Do smart swaps on comfort foods -

Instead of making calorie-rich dishes, opt for a veggie soup filled with fiber-rich vegetables like spinach. And if you love sweet potatoes, toss some in the oven, topped with coconut oil and cinnamon instead of butter.

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Consume immunity-boosting foods -

As flu season starts, it’s important for your immune system to be in good shape. Consuming healthy foods with vitamin C is key to fighting off infections. Also, ginger, spinach, garlic, and almonds are great for boosting your immunity.

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Get your flu shot -

Stay healthy during flu season by getting your once-a-year flu vaccine. The vaccine can reduce flu illnesses, missed work, and doctor’s office visits.

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Dine with your family -

Fall is a good time to slow down and regroup as a family. Reconnecting over dinner, with a healthy meal, is good both for your health and to strengthen family relationships.

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Munch on in-season foods -

A lot of beautiful vegetables and fruits appear this season. Some healthy options to consider are Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, cranberries, and turnips.

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Wake up at the same time -

As the sun goes down earlier, it can mess with your natural circadian rhythm. Try to sleep at least seven hours, and keep your normal bedtime and waking hours the same as the rest of the year.

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Switch up your fitness routines -

If you live in colder climates, you'll probably have to give up on your outdoor exercises. Ease into indoor routines during fall to avoid any shock.

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Get enough vitamin D -

Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium. When fall arrives, daylight is less available, meaning you'll get less of this essential vitamin. Therefore, consider taking supplements or eating a varied diet to maintain appropriate levels of vitamin D. Cod liver oil, salmon, tuna, and milk are a few ways to get your vitamin D.

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Be kind to yourself -

The shorter days can cause poor mood, and the flu season can cause sickness. Don't beat yourself up! Listen to your body and give it what it needs.

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Sterilize your most touched items -

It’s good to make it a habit to sanitize your most touched items. Throughout cold and flu season, you’ll definitely want to make sure you’re sanitizing your cell phone, keyboard, remote, tablet, and doorknobs, for instance.

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Drink your water -

As it gets colder, your body can lose as much fluid as in hot climates due to the high rates of energy used in colder climates. Be sure to keep your water intake high during the colder months, too.

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Watch those tailgate party calories -

From Halloween parties to just indulging in high-calorie foods at home, you're probably consuming a lot of extra calories. Enjoy it in moderation, but try to include more healthy alternatives as well.

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Organize your home -

Do some "spring cleaning" in the fall. Clean out your closet, rearrange your pantry, and get rid of the things you don't need.

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Soak in an Epsom bath -

There's nothing more relaxing than ending your chilly day with a hot bath. Add in some magnesium-rich Epson salts, which can help with the removal of toxins.

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Take care of your mental health -

The shorter days and cooler temperatures can sometimes lead to feelings of sadness or loneliness. If you notice that you're feeling down, reach out to friends or family members. You can also talk to a therapist or join a support group.

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Get in on the pumpkin trend -

Pumpkins don't only make for great centerpieces, they're also packed with nutrients and minerals. It's one of the best sources of beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body.

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Schedule your annual checkup -

Now is the time to schedule that annual physical you’ve been putting off all year. This is especially important if you haven't been to the doctor in a while, or if you have any health concerns.

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Enjoy the cooler weather outdoors -

With cooler weather, it's a great time to enjoy the outdoors. Take in the beautiful scenery of the changing leaves a and the crisp air by heading out to nature.

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Minimize your sugar intake -

It's easy to munch all those yummy seasonal treats, especially around Halloween. Eliminate the temptation by limiting the amount of treats you keep at home.

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Don’t skip breakfast -

Breakfast is important all year round, but even more so during these cooler months. Oatmeal is a great way to start the day. It will make you feel fuller for long, and it's packed with fiber. You'll also be less likely to pick up any unhealthy snacks after.

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Prepare your home for the cold -

With winter around the corner, prepare your home for possible extreme weather conditions. Be sure you have a shovel nearby if you're in an area that snows, batteries for your flashlights, and check if your heating is working.

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Moisturize your skin -

Cooler temperatures can be quite harsh on your skin, making it dry out, and even causing eczema. Be sure to moisturize, and don't forget: you still should be wearing sunscreen during the day.

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Make some plans for the cold months -

When it gets colder, we tend to hibernate and even isolate ourselves. Make sure you make some plans, so you stay somewhat social and have things to look forward to.

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Add some spice -

Add warming spices like ginger, turmeric, and chilies to your meals. They have great health benefits, for instance helping with your immunity.

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Wear layers and protect your body from the cold -

This is the season to start wearing layers. Make sure you have gloves and a scarf, hat, warm coat, comfy socks, and a pair of comfortable boots.

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Have your entertainment lined up -

There's nothing like getting all cozied up with a good book or a good series to binge-watch during chilly nights. Start building your list!

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Get enough sleep -

With the season changing, your body may start to feel tired earlier in the evening. Try and go to bed early, so you won't be restless and exhausted the next day.

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Keep hand sanitizer nearby -

The best way to avoid the spread of germs is to wash your hands with warm, soapy water. But if you can't do that, make sure you have a hand sanitizer with you.

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Take some time for yourself -

The colder months are Earth’s way of telling us to slow down. Take some time for yourself. Start to journal, meditate, and get in touch with your feelings. 

Sources: (TotalWellness) (Active Minds)

See also: Movies to get you in the mood for fall

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