The leaves are turning colours, Thanksgiving weekend has just passed and Halloween is around the corner.

It’s officially Fall.

This time of year, things get really crazy around my house.  School, activities and work is in full swing while planning for the holidays and cold and flu season starts to add to the load.  I have found that if my family makes a few adjustments, we all handle this stressful time of year a little better.
First, we start to be very regular about our supplements.  Each of my boys gets a probiotic pill, a teaspoon of Omega 3 oil and a couple drops of vitamin D before heading out the door.  This is my combination for everyone trying to keep their immune system working through cold and flu season and the Vitamin D also helps with mood as our days get shorter, reducing the risk of SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) as Fall and Winter progress.

Next, we re-establish bedtime rules.  It’s a slippery slope.  Bedtimes in my house start to get later and later until we reach a point that we all need to reset.  Sleep is so important for growing and adult bodies alike.  It helps keep our immune system working properly, helps us deal with stress better, supports our bodies while they repair themselves and helps maintain our energy levels.  If you are having trouble sleeping, try some herbal tea, cut out caffeine and alcohol in the evening, limit your screens after dinner and practice some mindfulness or deep breathing to help your brain get sleepy.  The boys and I like to use different meditations before bed.  Our favorite app has been Headspace.  The best part of using this app is that the meditations are short and we can do them as a family.  There are several options out there though, so find one that works for you.

Lastly, make sure you fit in some exercise.  This time of year, as the weather gets cooler, people don’t get out for walks or bike rides as much.  Make sure you are fitting in a walk, a class at a gym or incorporating a program at home.  Exercise helps with mood, helps manage stress, boosts immunity, and is a powerful anti-aging tool.  Be sure to work in some strength training activities as well.  These activities help build and maintain muscle, which is especially important as we get older.

A few simple changes can make a big difference in your health so keep things easy, but be consistent and you can ensure a healthy Fall and Winter for everyone in your family.