BOPDHB Checkup December 2018 | Page 25

Power of gratitude…. The season is also a time to reflect and be grateful about the good things that you and your family have experienced in the past year. Research shows that those who practice gratitude consistently have a stronger immune system and lower blood pressure….and are more alert, awake, alive and optimistic about their lives. Be grateful for people and things that are gone but stay with you forever because you keep them in your gratitude. Don’t forget to be sun smart this summer! Remember to focus on the positive aspects of where you want your life to be and your year to go. There are good things happening around you, but it’s up to you to open your eyes and look for them. Stay focused. Slip on a shirt with long sleeves. Fabric with a tighter weave and darker colours will give you better protection. Take a break from technology… Slip into the Shade No matter what you do, who you are or how old you are…you may need a social media/device detox. Control your social media and screen time, so it doesn’t control you….so here are some simple tips! • Try staying off-line for the first and last two hours of your day…and especially during meal times or when spending time with others. • Set rules around when to use/not use and advise the family. • Where possible during the holiday period speak to others vs texting or emailing. • Turn off all notifications and alerts. Stay Healthy this Christmas The Christmas season is upon us and this is definitely a time for socialising.There are plenty of “End of year” and Christmas functions being held by your family, friends and team members. These functions often include high-calorie food and plenty of drink. Try to have healthy options on your Christmas menu.We all like to share a Christmas meal with all the trimmings but we can also limit our portion sizes. Think about what drinks are on offer too. Include jugs of water or non-alcoholic drinks on the table to provide an alternative to alcoholic drinks. And if you are drinking alcohol, ensure that you are not driving and that you have a designated sober driver. The Christmas period is a great time to get moving. Gathering up your family or friends for a walk before or after that Christmas meal is a great way to enjoy each others company. Being moderately active for at least 30 minutes every day can improve your health. It’s never too early or late to start. Whatever you do, stay safe, healthy and enjoy the Christmas season. We will see you all in the New Year. Slip on a Shirt Slip into the shade of an umbrella or a leafy tree. Plan your outdoor activities for early or late in the day when the sun’s UV levels are lower. Slop on sunscreen S lop on plenty of broad- spectrum, water resistant sunscreen of at least SPF 30. Apply 20 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours and especially after being in water or sweating. Slap on a hat Wear a hat with a wide brim or a cap with flaps. More people are sunburnt on the face and neck than any other part of the body. Wrap on sunglasses Choose close fitting, wrap around style sunglasses. Not all sunglasses protect against UV radiation, so always check the label for the sun protection rating. 25