By Gabrielle Darling It’s that time of year again so bring on the gummy worms and dust off those skeletons in the basement – it’s Halloween time. This is an exciting time of year, full of spooky fun and an unbeatable sugar high, unfortunately it also takes place during cold and flu sea...
By Gabrielle Darling
It’s that time of year again so bring on the gummy worms and dust off those skeletons in the basement – it’s Halloween time. This is an exciting time of year, full of spooky fun and an unbeatable sugar high, unfortunately it also takes place during cold and flu season. We all want to enjoy carving pumpkins and going trick-or-treating, but is it possible to do that and stay healthy? With these tips and tricks kept in mind it will be a fun and virus free Halloween.
Most people know to cover their mouth with their elbow when they cough or sneeze, but for kids the habit can take a while. Get them in the mood for Halloween early by encouraging them to cough into their elbows so they too can look like Dracula. A shifty gaze and an elbow over the mouth makes for a germ-free atmosphere and a little seasonal fun.
Anyone who has ever bobbed for apples knows it can be a lot of fun, but also a close encounter for the flu. Here are a couple alternatives that are fun for everyone. Bobbing for doughnuts has become a big hit for kids in recent years. Simply tie your favorite doughnut on a string and hang it at an appropriate height for participants. Everyone gets a doughnut and you can race to see who finishes faster. If you really don’t want to give up your apple fun then consider an apple themed scavenger hunt. Another substitute is a test of bravery. Create a Halloween board with a hole for reaching hands. Have curious fingers move past various textures and slimy things in order to reach their apple. Everyone gets their own apple and it can easily be washed when they obtain it from those spooky holes.
As we all know it’s not Halloween until dusk falls. Part of the fun is staying up late, but exhaustion can also open a gateway for potential colds. Try to avoid that overtired feeling by taking a short nap before the big party. A half an hour can make a world of difference after midnight. If you can’t manage it before the big party then try to catch a catnap the next afternoon. Set your alarm so you don’t oversleep and you can decide whether you need a half an hour or more. Just a short time will drastically increase your brain activity and boost your immune system. Rest is the surest way to staying healthy after the big day.
Halloween is about having fun, but it doesn’t mean you have to pay for it with a cold afterwards. Cut down on that post party sneezing by trying something new. You just might find a new tradition or two!