BY ASHLEY SIWIEC MERCY HEALTH

This cold and flu season, boost your body’ s defenses against infection with a few simple habits. Prevention often starts with these simple steps: wash your hands, avoid contact with those who are sick and get vaccinated for the flu. Beyond those commonly known tips, Dr. Charles Moss Horton, a Mercy family practice physician in Berryville, recommends five daily habits to keep your body working at its best and your immune system finetuned.

1. MANAGE STRESS

When you feel yourself getting overwhelmed or anxious this winter, take some time for self-care. Stress not only affects your mind – it takes a toll on your body too.

“ Stress can manifest in a lot of physical ways,” Dr. Horton said.“ Our cortisol increases, and that can affect our immune system. To help, find someone to talk to – whether it’ s family, friends or a therapist. No one should feel uneasy about turning to a therapist for help, especially at this time of year.”

While stress management tools may vary from one person to the next, consider breathing exercises, a hobby like art or crafts, listening to music( bonus points if you dance, sing or hum along), meditating or journaling about your blessings. These activities can reduce stress and let your body focus on health and well-being.

2. TAKE BRISK WALKS

As the weather gets cooler, we naturally want to burrow into our homes and avoid getting cold. But resist the urge to hibernate this winter

OURHEALTHNWA. COM 12 DECEMBER 2025 | PREVENTION AND WELLNESS ISSUE