When winter comes to El Cerrito, Berkeley, and Kensington, temperatures drop, and family fun moves indoors—unless of course, you like to hike or explore the outdoors. Our staff members at Sunset View Cemetery & Mortuary do all they can to stay healthy during the colder months. It’s important for people of all ages to take care once winter weather sets in, and there are many ways to boost your immunity and enhance your mood at this time of year.

 

Wash your hands often. 

 

The COVID-19 pandemic was a great reminder to wash our hands thoroughly and often. To make handwashing feel less of a chore, invest in a liquid soap with a scent you enjoy—just be sure it’s antibacterial. Soothing ingredients like coconut oil and olive oil will leave your skin feeling fresh and clean.

 

Sanitize surfaces in your home.

 

Try to keep surfaces throughout your home clean and sanitized, especially those in the kitchen, bathroom, or other high-traffic areas. Use a vinegar/water mix or a store-bought cleaner to disinfect household surfaces. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product label to make certain you’re sanitizing properly.

 

Embrace healthy eating.

 

Healthy eating is important all year long, especially during the wintertime when our immune systems are especially vulnerable. Incorporate fruits and vegetables into your diet and try to prioritize what’s in season. Citrus fruits like tangerines and root vegetables such as sweet potatoes are two great sources of nutrients. Try adding these to warm salads and flavorful soups for nourishing meals all winter long.

 

Get moving.

 

Exercise improves both our physical and mental health. Even a quick daily walk around the neighborhood can have a host of benefits, especially when it’s cold outside. Be sure to bundle up when exercising outdoors, or if you prefer, do an indoor workout like Pilates or yoga.

 

Get your vitamin D fix.

 

The Bay Area spoils us during the summer with lots of sunshiny days, but lack of sunshine during the colder months can leave many of us feeling tired, sad, or lethargic. Not getting enough vitamin D can affect our energy levels and sleep quality. During the winter, try to soak up natural sunlight when you can. If cloudy weather persists for too long, invest in a SAD lamp to relieve the effects of seasonal affective disorder.

 

 

If you need help planning a funeral or cremation during the colder months, contact our experienced team. We are available 24/7 to answer your questions and meet your needs during this difficult time.