5 Ways I Stay Healthy

I’m a high school English teacher, so I’m around hundreds of students everyday. Being near that many people means I have to actively build my immune system. This year, I’ve partnered with Kaiser Permanente to share 5 ways I stay healthy during this season!

1. Flu Shot

Flu season is October-March and usually peaks in December — that’s why, right when the school year starts, I get the flu shot, because it takes about two weeks to build up all the antibodies.

One year, I didn’t get a flu shot and I was miserably sick multiple times. I lost my voice for days, had a fever for a week, and got a lingering hacking cough. In addition to protecting myself, getting a flu shot helps prevent spreading the flu virus to the community around me, like my colleagues and students. I’ve learned the hard way and haven’t missed a flu shot since!

That’s why I’m thrilled to be partnering with Kaiser Permanente to promote getting the flu shot as a way to stay healthy! A couple weeks ago, we offered free flu shots with free espresso shots outside the Whole Foods in the South Lake Union neighborhood of Seattle. There are also CareClinics by Kaiser Permanente at Bartell Drugs, so you can get your flu shot there. Please consult your doctor before getting a flu shot.

2. Working Out

I work out 1-2 times a week by going to spin, barre, and yoga classes. Working out is a way to de-stress, and a strong body helps contribute to a strong mind. I physically and mentally feel better and stronger when I’m regularly working out. You can read more about my workout routine here.

3. A Green Smoothie A Day

For the last two years, I’ve been drinking a green smoothie every morning. I’ve noticed a visible difference in my skin, which is more glowy, and my hair, which now grows super fast. While I try to eat healthy throughout the day to help build my immune system, I like starting the day with a burst of vitamins and nutrients.

This is my quick and simple recipe:

• Two handfuls of greens, like spinach and baby kale
• A little bit of frozen fruit, like 1/2 banana or half a handful of berries
• A splash of coconut water

I try to not add too much fruit so I can avoid excess sugar in the morning. Instead of coconut water, you could use ice, milk, or nut milk depending on your dietary needs.

In addition to a green smoothie, I also make sure to drink plenty of water. I used to be terrible at drinking water, but I started using the Plant Nanny mobile app to track my water intake. Since I have to “water” my plant in the app, I’ve become motivated to drink enough water everyday.

4. Cleaning Wipes

Not only am I around hundreds of students everyday, but I also touch heavily-trafficked surfaces like door handles, desks, homework, and more. That’s why I carry disinfecting wipes in my purse and also have them by my desk at work. I’m not overly stringent about cleanliness, but I try to wipe down doorknobs, my keyboard, and my cell phone at least once a week.

5. Getting 7-8hrs of Sleep

I’m a night owl, so I rarely get enough sleep, but I certainly try! I try to put down my phone by 11pm, so I can get enough sleep to wake up by 6am. In addition to sleep, it’s also been beneficial for my physical and mental health to rest. To me, resting means slowing down, dialing back, and managing stress so that I can relax and recharge.

How do you stay healthy? Let me know in the comments!

This post is sponsored by Kaiser Permanente. Thank you for supporting companies
that make Hey Pretty Thing possible! All photography, writing, and opinions are my own.