The first thing people usually think of to prevent sickness is hand sanitizer. Although this is helpful there are many more things one can do.

While Spring is known for a changing of tides in weather and foliage, it can also be quite easy to get sick. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when trying to avoid the common cold or flu.

• Wash Your Hands!

This is one of the simplest and yet most overlooked aspects of avoiding the common cold. We use our hands for everything. This makes them one of the most common places for bacteria or sickness to enter the body. Be sure to wash your hands frequently throughout the day using soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds.

• Avoid Touching Your Face

Many people habitually touch their face whether they are stressed, happy, bored, or angry. It’s just part of our human nature and psychology. Even so, one should exercise caution in doing this as it can be easy to contract any form of sicknesses. This tip coincides with washing one’s hands. Even so, one should try to not touch their face excessively.

• Stay Hydrated

One of the most common ways to have a weakened immune system is dehydration. The body alone is constituted by around 60% water. A well hydrated body is key to allowing your internal organs to function properly, expel toxins, and fight off sickness. Without this key factor, it can be easy to become sick.

• Get Enough Sleep

Everyone has different sleep requirements and may feel better rested than others on less sleep. However, it is incredibly important to get around 7-9 hours of sleep. Sleep is the body’s way of healing and recovering. Don’t try to power through or insist you can function on 3 hours of sleep. It is not healthy for an individual to operate in this fashion for a long time and can make one susceptible to sickness.

• Look at Your Diet

Are you eating your fruits and vegetables? While this may seem like something your mother would have asked you as a child, it is actually quite an accurate and valid question. Fruits and vegetables are packed with nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants all which help to fight sickness. There is nothing wrong with enjoying a cheat meal or having a steak. However, one should try to incorporate fruits and vegetables into their diet consistently.

• Avoid Sick People

While this may be easier to implement for some than others, it is important to maintain a good distance if others are sick. This may seem rude to the person who is ill. If this is the case, just be honest with whoever you are avoiding by saying you are trying to not get sick.  They should understand and recognize this as a legitimate concern.

• Exercise, Exercise, Exercise!

The best way to prepare for sickness is to hit the gym. Exercising frequently and strengthening the body is one of the most effective ways to prevent sickness. There have been many studies conducted which show that frequent exercise improves the immune system. One doesn’t even need to be a gym junkie to reap the benefits. Moderate exercise which raises the heart rate slightly and improves cardiovascular health is the best way to strengthen the immune system.

• Ensure Immunizations Are up to Date

Look at your recent immunizations and make sure that you are all up to date with your local health practitioner. This can help you to prevent any number of sicknesses from occurring. Additionally, many local supermarkets offer a great deal of services in immunizations.

• Be Happy!

One of the simplest and yet most difficult things to master is having a positive outlook on the world. The biological chemistry of anger and sadness causes a whole host of issues but can really hurt one’s immune system. The best way to deal with this is to acknowledge stress in one’s life and deal with the root of the issue. Additionally, meditate, drink tea, go for a run; do whatever makes you happy—your immune system will thank you later. 

• Be Conscious of Others

If you do find yourself in the unfortunate position of being sick, try to avoid going to large social gatherings or public places where you could cause the spread of sickness. Additionally, it is better to just lay low and get some rest when you are sick. Take care of yourself and make that your number one priority. Don’t be afraid to say no to invitations or a gathering if you are sick.

Overall, these ten tips are the best way to ensure that you stay healthy and are just good tips in general to lead a happy and healthy life.