Health

6 Tips To Stay Healthy During The Holidays

Published

2 years ago

December 28, 2022

The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes an abundance of festivities. From the decorations to the delicious food, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the holidays. But with all the fun comes added stress, fatigue, and overindulgence. That’s why it’s essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle during this time of year. Read on for some tips on how to stay healthy during the holidays.

Get Enough Sleep

It can be tempting to stay up late partying or to catch up with friends and family but ensure you’re getting enough rest, so your immune system stays strong. Sleep is one of the most important things we do for our health, but it’s also one of the first things that gets neglected during this busy season. Make sure you’re getting at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night, so your body is well-rested and ready for all the activities that come with the holiday season.

It’s also essential to stick to your regular sleep schedule as much as possible, even when life gets hectic. If you have trouble falling asleep, try some natural sleeping aids like Melatonin. Some people say Melatonin doesn’t work for them, but there could be other factors that are stopping the sleep aid from being effective, such as the habit of using electronic devices an hour or two before going to bed.

Exercise Regularly

Exercise is essential for keeping your mind and body healthy during this busy time of year. Set aside at least 30 minutes daily for physical activity like running, cycling, or swimming — anything that increases your heart rate. Not only will exercise help reduce stress levels, but it will also help prevent weight gain from all those holiday treats.

Eat Mindfully

With all the delicious foods available during the holiday season, it can be hard to resist temptation, but try not to overindulge. Be mindful when choosing what you eat and how much you eat. Try to stick with smaller portions and avoid highly processed foods, often filled with unhealthy fats and sugars. Also, aim for more plant-based meals packed full of vitamins and minerals to keep your energy levels up throughout the day.

Drink Plenty Of Water

Staying hydrated is key to maintaining good health, especially during this time of year when there are lots of sugary drinks around. Make sure you’re drinking at least eight glasses of water every day. This will help flush out toxins from your body and keep your skin radiant.

Take Time For Yourself

With so many things going on during the holidays, it can be easy to forget about taking care of yourself but take your time. Make sure you take time each day just for yourself, whether meditating, reading, or simply taking a long walk in nature. Do something that brings you joy and helps clear away any stress or worries from your mind. This will ensure that you remain refreshed throughout the season.

Limit Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol consumption is often pretty high during the holidays due to all the celebrations and parties. However, remember that too much alcohol can adversely affect your mental and physical health. In addition, alcohol can be why Melatonin doesn’t work for some people.

Try limiting yourself to one or two drinks per occasion, so you don’t overdo it. This will help keep you healthier overall and save you money in the long run since alcohol tends to be expensive during this time of year.

Conclusion

Even though there is so much hustle and bustle around this time of year, don’t forget about taking care of yourself first and foremost. By following these simple tips, you can stay healthy through the holidays while still having fun. Just remember to get plenty of rest, exercise regularly, eat mindfully, drink plenty of water, take some time off just for yourself now and then, and limit your alcohol consumption.

Health

How Telehealth Works for Addicts in Recovery

Published

7 hours ago

March 6, 2025

Michelle Langton

Technology has been shaping healthcare for decades, and these days, tech advancements for the health sector are happening faster than ever before. Telehealth has emerged as one advancement that has touched every healthcare discipline, from cancer care to pediatrics. The innovative approach of telehealth is breaking down barriers to care and even reaching those who are struggling with substance abuse.

By leveraging digital platforms, recovery specialists can offer better access to therapy sessions, support groups, and medical consultations. These breakthroughs in accessibility are significant for people in healthcare deserts who are languishing under increased addiction rates and a lack of reliable treatment options.

Nick Padlo, founder and CEO of Sophros Recovery in Florida, has seen the benefit of telehealth for recovering addicts firsthand. “Individuals struggling with addiction can now find support and guidance if they do not have access to a treatment center near their home,” he explains. “These virtual programs are designed to provide comprehensive care, similar to traditional in-person treatment, but with the added convenience of digital accessibility.”

Here, we explore the benefits of telehealth for recovery and how clinicians and other professionals in the field can best utilize it for better outcomes.

An increased need for comprehensive recovery

The United States saw over 107,000 overdose deaths in 2023. This was a notable increase from previous numbers. The emergence of fentanyl as the drug of choice for many and the perpetuation of alcohol and other drug abuses have made access to comprehensive recovery even more important than ever.

“Understanding the options available can be the first step to recovery,” says Padlo. When people have easier access to help, they may be more apt to seek sobriety.

The pandemic saw a marked increase in substance abuse, laying bare the need for digital access to recovery resources. During the COVID shutdown, the crucial need for an alternative to in-person treatment was evident, and the benefits of such treatment options allowed clinicians and other professionals to carry this digital access to recovery care through the pandemic and into the post-COVID world.

In addition, those living in rural areas or areas with a lack of access to comprehensive recovery care often have needs on par with those in larger urban areas. Telehealth allows people to access the same professionals that those in big cities rely upon.

Studies have shown that continuity of care is critical to the success of addiction recovery. Telehealth can facilitate ongoing engagement with those in recovery, securing continuity of care and leading to better recovery outcomes.

A modern approach

“Online addiction recovery typically involves a combination of individual therapy, group therapy, educational sessions, and support groups, all conducted via video conferencing or other online tools,” explains Padlo. The flexibility of these programs allows participants to schedule them around their availability and considering their other commitments.

“We aim to mirror the effectiveness of traditional methods,” says Padlo. “We are providing the same level of care and support through a virtual format.”

Padlo stresses that online recovery can also reduce stigmas that are associated with seeking help for one’s addictions. When those in recovery can participate from the comfort of their own home, they may be more apt to commit to the recovery process.

People will need to consider their personal circumstances when determining if telehealth for addiction recovery is right for them. They may want to evaluate how comfortable they are with technology and whether they have a stable internet connection. Also, it helps to have a strong support system to keep one accountable since it can sometimes be easier to ignore digital meeting commitments.

However, Padlo cautions that those with severe addiction issues or co-occurring addictions may fare better with in-person detox and recovery.

Telehealth can be a powerful tool in the fight against addiction. The option offers a range of benefits, including easier access, privacy, and even savings for some. According to a recent study by the Oregon Health and Science University, telehealth may be just the solution to overcoming the stigma of rehab and recovery and radically reducing barriers for people who need it the most.

While telehealth for addiction recovery may not be a one-size-fits-all solution, and some people may require more intensive care and medical intervention, it has broken barriers for those in areas of limited access to recovery or seeking an option that offers more privacy.

As the field of virtual health delivery continues to evolve, the benefits of telehealth for addiction recovery will become clear. Telehealth provides comprehensive, discrete, and effective care for those starting or continuing their recovery journey.