Long lines at a Health Clinic in Jamaica Plains

Here in Boston, Mayor Thomas Menino just declared a public health emergency due to a serious flu outbreak, which got us thinking–what we can do to stay healthy this year? Turns out there are all sorts of actions on Practically Green that help keep the doctor away all while racking up the points on Practically Green!

Here are six tips for staying well and the actions to guide you:

1. Drink water

When it’s cold outside, an icy glass of water isn’t generally top of mind, but it’s important to stay hydrated in the winter too. How many times have you heard your doctor say “drink plenty of fluids”? So keep a reusable water bottle–or two–on hand when out and about (+10 points) or start making your own sparkling water at home (+10 points).

2. Eat a healthy diet

How you fuel your body is important too whether this means skipping the takeout for a night (+10 points), filling your plate with organic fruits and vegetables (+50 points) rich in vitamins and antioxidants, or switching to organic chicken to avoid unwanted chemicals.

3. Get outside

Studies have shown that 5 to 10 minutes of sunlight a day can provide all the Vitamin D our bodies need which may help reduce cancer, high blood pressure, osteoarthritis, and immune-system abnormalities–whew that’s a lot for some extra time in the sun! So get out and explore the great outdoors (+20 points) and soak up some rays.

4. De-stress

Stress can impact your immune system and reduce your ability to combat viruses. So how do you de-stress? We created a badge full of actions that reward you for taking a load off whether that means hitting the slopes, indulging in a spa retreat, or simply curling up at home with a good book. Ahhh.

5. Get enough sleep

Doctors at the Mayo Clinic recommend seven to eight hours of sleep a night and warn that your body is more susceptible to viruses when you don’t get enough sleep. So get some shut eye and for bonus points on Practically Green, consider switching to organic sheets (+10 points) or switching to an organic mattress (+50 points).

6. Wash your hands

During cold and flu season, keeping germs at bay is critical and washing your hands frequently is key. Turn off the water while you soap up for an extra 10 points on Practically Green or keep a natural hand sanitizer (+10 points) on–er–hand for when washing isn’t an option.

Have any other tips that you rely on to stay healthy? We’d love to hear about them in the comments section below. Be well!