Don’t forget to make time to focus on your health and wellness during the hurricane.
Living in Florida means preparing for hurricane season, and while securing your home is important, taking care of your health should also be a top priority. At Serenity Wellness and Family Practice, we emphasize the need for staying physically and mentally well through the storm. Below are tips to help you protect your well-being as you prepare for, endure, and recover from a hurricane.
1. Eat Smart Before and During the Storm
Good nutrition is vital, especially during stressful times. Preparing and choosing the right foods before the storm hits ensures you’re well-nourished if you lose power or access to fresh groceries.
Before the storm, stock up on:
- Non-perishable proteins: Canned tuna, salmon, chicken, beans, and nuts are great sources of protein that don’t require refrigeration.
- Healthy snacks: Peanut butter, trail mix, whole-grain crackers, and granola bars provide energy and are easy to store.
- Fruits and vegetables: Fresh produce like apples, oranges, carrots, and cucumbers last longer without refrigeration. You can also prepare sliced veggies and fruits to have ready before the storm.
- Frozen meals: Prepare some freezer-friendly meals like soups, stews, or cooked grains and store them before the storm. They can stay cool for a while in the freezer even if the power goes out.
Once the storm passes, and if you’re without electricity, focus on meals that don’t require cooking, such as canned or pre-packaged foods. If you’re on a medical weight loss plan, stay mindful of portion sizes and continue to make balanced choices.
Looking for more tips on the best way to eat while on your medical weight loss journey check out these articles.
How to Eat for Lasting Weight Loss Results: A Patient’s Guide
Best and Worst Foods for Your Medical Weight Loss Journey
Smart Portion Control: Tips for Medical Weight Loss Success
2. Hydration Is Key
Hydration is essential for maintaining your health, especially when facing stress and possible disruptions to water supplies. Before the storm, make sure to store enough water and electrolyte-filled drinks, like sports drinks and coconut water, for drinking and basic needs. The general recommendation is one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days.
In addition to water, certain foods can help keep you hydrated:
- Water-rich fruits and vegetables: Stock up on cucumbers, watermelons, strawberries, and oranges, which are high in water content and can help supplement your fluid intake.
- Broth-based soups: If you still have power, make and freeze soups. They are hydrating, nourishing, and easy to reheat if needed.
- Yogurt: Keep some yogurt in your fridge or cooler, as it’s not only hydrating but also provides probiotics that support digestion.
Avoid dehydrating beverages like alcohol and caffeine during this time, as they can exacerbate water loss. If you feel dehydrated after the storm, remember that IV hydration therapy is a fast and effective way to rehydrate and restore your energy.
If you are in need of an added boost, check out our IV hydration menu and give us a call to get your drip after the storm (386) 873-4560 or click here to book online.
3. Make Sleep a Priority
During the stress of a hurricane, sleep often becomes neglected. But getting proper rest is crucial for maintaining your immune system and emotional well-being.
Try to stick to your usual sleep routine, even if the storm disrupts your schedule. Creating a calming pre-bedtime routine—whether that involves reading, meditating, or practicing deep breathing exercises—can help you wind down, even during a chaotic situation.
If the power is out and you’re finding it difficult to sleep, consider wearing an eye mask or using earplugs to block out distractions. Prioritizing sleep can make a big difference in your mental and physical resilience.
4. Create Quality Time and Memories During the Power Outage
Hurricanes often force us to slow down, and power outages can provide an unexpected opportunity to connect with loved ones. Without the usual distractions of screens, take this time to create meaningful moments with family or friends.
- Board games and card games: Dust off the old favorites or learn a new game that everyone can enjoy. It’s a great way to pass the time and enjoy each other’s company.
- Storytelling: Share stories from childhood or family history. This can be especially fun for younger children and helps pass the time in an engaging way.
- Creative activities: Get artsy with coloring books, drawing, or even trying some easy crafts. If you have kids, these activities can keep them occupied while also stimulating their creativity.
Take the opportunity to enjoy conversations without the constant buzz of phones, tablets, and televisions. These moments of quality time will turn what could be a stressful situation into a chance for bonding.
5. Recover with Support from Serenity Wellness
After the storm has passed, you might feel physically and mentally drained. The process of cleaning up, returning to work, and resuming normal routines can add to the stress. This is a good time to focus on your recovery and restore your body’s balance.
If you’ve been through a stressful experience, IV hydration treatments can help replenish lost fluids and nutrients. Dehydration can set in quickly when you’ve been exerting yourself during cleanup efforts or have had limited access to clean drinking water.
If you’ve been on a medical weight loss journey, remember to keep tracking your progress and resume your plan as soon as possible. It’s easy to fall out of routines during times of crisis, but Serenity Wellness and Family Practice is here to help you get back on track with your health and wellness goals.
At Serenity Wellness and Family Practice, we’re committed to supporting our patients, not only in times of health but also in times of challenge. Whether it’s preparing for a hurricane or helping you recover afterward, our clinic is ready to provide the care you need. Stay safe, stay well, and remember that your health is always worth prioritizing, no matter what the weather brings.