Welcome to November! If you’re starting the month feeling a bit off due to a Halloween candy binge (we’ve all been there), it’s time to get back on track. Hydrate, get moving with some exercise, and snack on something healthy, like hummus and baby carrots. You’ll need that energy because there’s a lot going on this month, from the time change and Election Day to Thanksgiving and the start of the holiday season. So, let’s dive in and make this month the best one yet!
Here’s your ultimate guide to navigating November:
😟 Manage Stress: November 6 is National Stress Awareness Day. Feeling stressed? You’re not alone. Try expert-recommended ways to quickly calm down, such as hope-scrolling (filling your social media with positive content) or finding mood-boosting workouts to help relieve tension.
🎄 Embrace Holiday Cheer Early: If you’re someone who’s already cranking up the holiday tunes and decking the halls on November 1, you’re onto something. Mental health experts suggest that diving into the festive spirit early can help lift your mood. Go ahead—watch Home Alone, hang up your decorations, and blast those carols!
⏰ Time to Fall Back: Daylight saving time ends at 2 a.m. on November 3, giving you an extra hour of sleep. Of course, this also means dealing with the task of updating all your clocks, but don’t worry—it’s worth it. Here’s how the time change might affect your health and ways to prepare for the seasonal shift.
🥡 Clean Out the Fridge: National Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day is November 15! Use this as an opportunity to declutter and make room for that Thanksgiving turkey. It’s also the perfect time to say goodbye to outdated leftovers, takeout containers, and any expired condiments from years past. Plus, we’ve got tips to help keep your fresh foods fresh.
🧴 Pamper Your Skin: November is National Healthy Skin Month. Make sure you’re checking in with your dermatologist for your annual full-body skin check (or more frequently if you’re at higher risk for skin cancer). And yes, sunscreen is a must—every day! Start a solid skincare routine and get glowing.
😡 Avoid Holiday Drama: After an election season filled with tension, your Thanksgiving dinner may include a variety of opinions around the table. It’s okay if you don’t all agree, but remember, it’s also okay to protect your peace by choosing to opt-out of heated discussions. Keep your holiday conversations stress-free by practicing good listening and tactfully changing the subject.
🍗 Stay Safe in the Kitchen: Thanksgiving dinner isn’t just about the feast—it’s also about keeping safe while cooking. Prevent injuries by taking your time in the kitchen, using sharp knives, and following safe carving techniques. You’ll avoid slicing your hand or causing a fire.
🫙 Give Kimchi a Try: If you haven’t yet tried kimchi, National Kimchi Day (November 22) is the perfect time to dive into this flavorful and healthy dish. Made with fermented cabbage and a spicy mix of seasonings, kimchi is a gut-friendly option rich in vitamins and minerals.
🚽 Show Your Bladder Some Love: November is also Bladder Health Awareness Month. Stay hydrated, reduce caffeine and alcohol intake, and focus on high-fiber foods to keep your bladder in tip-top shape. Avoid common mistakes like pushing when you pee, and learn how to protect your pelvic floor.
🌲 Explore Your Family Health History: Thanksgiving is a great time to catch up with family, so take the opportunity to learn more about your family’s health history. Knowing your genetic risks can help inform your health decisions moving forward. Ask about any hereditary conditions and share what you learn with your healthcare provider.
🥬 Try a Vegan Dish: For World Vegan Month, instead of overhauling your entire diet, why not try a vegan twist on a classic dish? Vegan versions of fettuccine alfredo and chili are delicious and hearty. Or check out that new vegan spot in town—you might be surprised by how tasty plant-based treats can be!
🤒 Stock Up for Sick Days: The winter season is prime time for catching colds, so be prepared. Create a sick-day kit with essentials like medications, soup, and a thermometer. And don’t forget your favorite comfort items—there’s nothing better than cozying up with a blanket and your favorite shows while you recover.
What to Eat, Get, and Do This Month:
Eat: Cranberries. This tart fruit is packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making it a perfect addition to your November meals. Celebrate Eat a Cranberry Day (November 23) by adding fresh or dried cranberries to your oatmeal, salads, or even homemade cranberry chutney.
Get: A Safer Travel Plan. Holiday travel can be stressful, but with a little planning, it can be smoother. If you can, avoid peak travel days, like the Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving. If you’re driving, try to hit the road early or after 6 p.m. to avoid the worst traffic jams.
Visit: The Voting Booth. Election Day is November 5, and voting is a great way to feel empowered. Research shows that participating in the democratic process has a positive impact on mental health and overall well-being, so be sure to make your voice heard!
Let’s make this November a month of balance, positivity, and festive joy!
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