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Dickens Christmas Fair 2007 October Missive #6 - Staying Healthy
(sent October 31st, 2007)

Some good healthy thoughts from Leslie Patterson. To this I would add:

When you're at the fair and at workshops, use Purell or similar hand cleaners (affectionately known as "cootie juice") frequently during the day. If it's approved by your physician, add extra vitamin C and consider Airborne and other cold-fighters. (Check with your physician before adding anything new to your daily regimen if you have concerns; remember some of these products, and the herbs mentioned below, will affect different people differently)


Hello there! 

This year we would like to try something new.  We would like all participants of the fair to help each other to stay healthy this coming winter.

We are just a few short weeks away from all the hugs, shared beverages, long hours, too much junk food, cold floors, and all the little runny nose children we bring with us.

So...what we ask is that this year you stay home if you are very ill, letting your director know of course, so they can work around you.  If you have a cold, but feel well enough to come in, please don't share drinking vessels, avoid socializing and go home as soon as your obligations are done, to get as much rest as you can. Remember, it's not just you to consider, you don't want to share your illness with those around you.


And...starting now you should begin getting you system built up and ready by following the basics listed below.

Applying These Tips Will Help You Stay Healthy:

        1       Eat Well
 For your best shot at staying healthy this winter, make sure you get at least three servings of vegetables each day, and two servings of fresh fruit. In addition, opt for whole grains when you can, and make sure you're taking in at least two servings of milk or yogurt each day.

        2       Wash Your Hands
 Wash your hands with hot, soapy water every time you use the bathroom and before every meal.
 To be sure you're really washing away the potential viruses and bacteria you've come in contact with, use hot water and really scrub your hands for at least 60 seconds.

        3       Get Plenty of Sleep
 To make sure your body is fully capable of fighting off illnesses this winter, create a consistent bedtime routine. This should include going to bed at the same time each night so that your body learns to anticipate sleep. As well, you might consider adding some habits that relax you at bedtime, such as a warm bath or reading a novel.

        4       Take a Multi-Vitamin
 This simple daily step can play an important role in keeping your body healthy. Get into the habit of taking a once-daily multi-vitamin.

        5       Get a Flu Shot
 There are many flu clinics at grocery stores and pharmacies where you can get a flu shot for under $20. Or, if you prefer to see your regular doctor, you might consider getting the flu mist, which is a vaccine inhaled through the nasal passages.


For those of you who prefer the Holistic approach the following information is available at:
 http://www.doityourself.com/stry/healthywinter

 How to make simple herbal remedies yourself

In addition, some herbs are particularly helpful in fighting common winter ailments. Look for products containing these healing herbs. Often, herbs are most effective in combination with each other, so research into how to make your own herbal concoctions:

Tonic herbs are particularly effective in fortifying the immune system and strengthening bodily functions against the attack of bacteria and viruses. Some helpful tonic herbs are:

        *       Andrographis paniculata: aids in prevention of colds and relief of symptoms.
        *       Astragalus: boosts the immune system and aids in prevention of colds. Mostly used in people under 40 years of age.
        *       Ginseng: Asiatic Ginseng can strengthen the body greatly during the shift from summer warmth to winter cold, which can cripple the immune system. Especially good for older people.

Cold and Flu
        *       Echinacea : stimulates the immune system to help combat bacteria, fungi, and viruses that are invading the body. Helps with almost any common infection, including colds and influenza, and enhances wellness. The source of most Echinacea remedies comes from the roots and aerial parts of the coneflower. A Do-It-Yourself Echinacea Herbal How-To
        *       Honeysuckle: a very cooling remedy, used for high fevers. Its use can be extended by frying the herb to reduce its cold nature.
        *       Elderberry: reduces flu symptoms.
        *       Garlic: helps fight bacterial and viral infections.
        *       Ginger: helps settle upset stomachs. Ginger tea is helpful in a cold to warm the body, increasing perspiration in order to reduce its intensity.
        *       Goldenseal: fights bacterial infections.
        *       Peppermint: helps settle stomach and fight fevers.

Bundle Up Right
In winter weather, it is wise to dress in layers to keep warm without trapping in cold sweat. If you are exercising, the physical activity will warm your body up no matter how cold it may be outside. Avoid wearing cotton as it will absorb moisture, and as the moisture from sweating turns cold, it will give you the chills. This can lead to illness. Good materials to wear are silk, wool, nylon, fleece, and other man-made fibers. It is particularly important to keep your head, hands and feet warm. Invest in a good hat, insulated gloves, and a pair of snow boots which will keep your feet dry.

Keeping Your Spirit Up in the Winter
Our physical and emotional states are intrinsically linked. If we are unhealthy physically it can affect our mental state, just as if we are down emotionally it can cripple us physically. During the winter it is important to nurture both your mind and body for total well-being. For many people spirits are generally lower during the winter months. The bitter cold and shorter daylight hours mean less time outdoors in the sun and fresh air. This can lead to feelings of exhaustion, unmotivation, and a general depressed mood. Again, keeping active and exercising can benefit the mind, and there are plenty of activities to involve yourself with during the winter to lift your spirit. Do indoor things that stimulate your creativity. Visit museums and art galleries, and go to concerts and films. Hang out with friends and go shopping, or out for dinner or coffee. Find ways to entertain yourself at home. Winter is a great time for reading, drawing, painting, playing instruments, and taking pictures. Decorate your home to get you into the winter spirit. Remember that the winter is a time of celebration and gathering with our family and friends. If you take care of your "whole" with holistic healthcare year round, you will be better prepared to survive the bleakness of the winter and turn it into a productive and healthy season.


There is also great winter health checklist which can be found at:  http://thrivehealth.net/handouta.doc

--

Leslie Patterson
Vendor Coordinator www.dickensfair.com
415-892-4039 fax
800-510-1558 x 114 office


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