With fall right around the corner here in Washington, D.C., many people are gearing up for cooler weather. That means that before long, we will all be breaking out our favorite flannel shirts and blue jeans to stay warm while we’re on the go. There are a number of reasons that people consider fall to be the best season; whether it’s the pleasant temperatures with just a bit of chill on the wind, the flavors that start appearing in our foods, or the fact that holiday season is just around the corner, the allure of the fall season is pretty hard to deny!

It’s also true that people start to nest a little bit more at this time of year. It makes sense, after all, because when the days start getting shorter and the weather starts to get a bit chillier, people often want to stay indoors. Fortunately for you, your local urgent care center has a few tips for staying healthy when autumn is in full swing. Wondering what you can do to make your health a top priority at this time of the year? Keep reading to find out!

Our Tips for Staying Healthy During Fall

Go For a Walk in Your Neighborhood

When is the last time you actually enjoyed the neighborhood that your home is in? Sure, you may have gone for a jog last weekend and you might even take your dog out for a little stroll on a regular basis, but can you remember the last time you simply took a walk to enjoy the homes that surround yours? Washington, D.C. is known for having some truly beautiful homes, so get out there and do a bit of exploring. You might be surprised at what you find right around the corner.

Do Touristy Things

Similarly, when was the last time you went and visited the Lincoln Memorial? How about the Washington Monument? Yes, they are common tourist destinations, but it can sometimes be incredibly fun to re-examine some of the best parts of your own town. If heading to the United States Capitol isn’t quite your cup of tea, why not head to the National Air and Space Museum to see a new exhibit? Or of course you could do a bit of learning at the National Museum of American History.

You could also try something you’ve never tried before. A trip to the International Spy Museum might be exactly what you need to get out and explore a little bit. You could also see a bit of art at the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery to expand your horizons. The point is that there are plenty of things to do in your own city that often get overlooked, so find something you think you might enjoy and get out there and experience something new–or experience something you’ve seen a dozen times, but with a fresh set of eyes.

Play With Your Kids

With football season in full swing, now is a great time to grab a football and get out there to play a bit of catch with your kids. Even if you are not particularly excited about sports, there’s something that’s truly special about just tossing a ball back and forth with the kiddos. Not only is it relaxing, but it’s better than sitting on the couch and feeling bored. If catch isn’t your thing, there are a number of other outdoor activities you can enjoy with your family. The point of it all is to simply get outside and be active, and it’s always easier when you’re spending time with your family.

Make Smart Food Choices

Because the weather starts to cool off and there is less of a drive to get out and be active and more of a desire to curl up on the couch with a warm blanket and just take it easy. The fact of the matter is that settling down in the fall is something many of us do. The key to staying healthy during this time lies largely with what types of food you’re eating. There is a reason that cooler weather is often associated with people gaining a bit of weight.

Even if you are hibernating when the fall weather starts to roll around, the key is to continue to make smart food choices. Holidays aren’t known for health foods, but with a bit of thought, planning, and dedication, you can enjoy some incredible food that isn’t incredibly bad for you. Make an effort to drink plenty of water, stay away from overly sugary foods, and eat your vegetables and you’ll be on the road to success.

Need to Find Urgent Care in Washington, D.C.?

At Medics USA, we hope that you’ll stay happy and healthy all fall long, but in the event that something comes up and you need to seek an urgent care center, we will be here to take great care of you. Whether it’s a fever, headache, sore throat, infection, sprain, or something else entirely, you can count on us to provide you with the help you need to get back out there and enjoy the rest of fall. It only comes around once a year after all, and we think you deserve to enjoy it to its fullest.

When you’re in need, find a location near you (we have two locations right here in Washington, D.C.) and stop in to see us, knowing that our team of experts will work hard to be there for you when you need help the most.