Monthly Archives: December 2019

*Winter Solstice 2019: Dec. 21, 11:19 pm EST

Commonly referred to as the “shortest day of the year”, the Winter Solstice is an astronomical event. Occurring when the sun reaches the Tropic of Capricorn, we have our shortest day and longest night in the Northern Hemisphere. You may be in sunny and warm Florida or cold and snowy Minnesota, regardless, the Solstice marks the first day of winter. The Solstice, when the sun appears at its lowest in the sky, begins to reverse. This marks the hours of sunlight increasing and daylight becoming longer. In the Southern Hemisphere, the Summer Solstice happens simultaneously.

There are many different Winter Solstice celebrations around the globe. This event has played important roles in many cultures from ancient times to today. One such tradition is the Feast of Juul which is observed in Scandinavia. The Yule or Juul log was brought in and burned in honor of the Scandinavian god Thor. It was Thor’s job to bring the sun, and warmth it provided, back to the people. There are many rituals and customs that stem from this feast.

*Learn more at farmersalmanac.com

Posted in Human Interest /

December is Flu Fighting Month

December is all about staying healthy and fighting the flu. December 1-7, is National Hand Washing Awareness Week and Influenza Vaccination Week.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated each year. This can be achieved by a visit to a variety of health providers. Your physician can normally provide a flu shot, but so can local pharmacies and clinics. Also, take actions daily, to stop the spread of harmful germs and thus the flu virus. Covering your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing and washing your hands often are ways to prevent germs from spreading. If you do get sick, there are prescription medications called “antiviral drugs” that can be used to treat flu symptoms.

You can also avoid getting the flu by just taking good care of yourself. Eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of fluids. Consider cutting back on caffeine and alcohol which can cause dehydration.  Keep up your exercise routine. Just because it is cold outside does not mean quit moving.

Daily preventative actions can help fight illness. Keeping surfaces clean and disinfected is a sure way to kill household germs. Wipe down handles, faucets, phones, work surfaces that you touch often. Don’t forget your work environment and the car.

You can learn more at cdc.gov, mayoclinic.org and nih.gov

Posted in Health Topics /