Winter Wellness Tips from The Health Center at Hudson Yards

Yes, it’s that time of year. No, it’s not a given that your nose - not to mention the rest of you - has to succumb to the season’s wrath, especially if you listen to what Dr. Lindsay Jubelt, Medical Director at The Health Center at Hudson Yards, has to say.

"Colds and other respiratory illnesses peak in winter because they are spread through direct contact in close quarters or airborne droplets. Your best defense is to hand-washing - lots and lots of it, particularly before you eat. Also, try not to touch your eyes, nose, or mouth, all common entry points for germs. And cover your nose and mouth with a scarf to keep those airways moist and germs out.

“The seasonal drop in humidity makes for dry skin, but preventative measures really do work. Use a humidifier to increase the moisture in your home - check out Muji’s famous diffusers. “Limiting your shower or bath to 5-10 minutes ensures that you won’t wash away the layer of oil on your skin that locks in moisture. Make sure to use synthetic cleaners instead of traditional soaps, which cause damage to the skin’s natural moisture barrier. As soon as you’re out of the water, moisturize with a lotion (for slightly dry skin) or cream (for tougher cases) - you’ll find multiple options at Kiehl’s.

“Feeling fatigued or sluggish? Winter blues and seasonal affective disorder may be the reason. To remedy that, go toward the light, ideally early morning natural light. Even 30 minutes will significantly boost your mood—perhaps a walk on Vessel is in order? If you can’t get outside, consider bright light therapy, with a 10,000 lux light box. But whether indoors or out, exercise. The more the better. Find a routine you’ll stick with and you’ll gain a sunnier outlook through the dreary months, not to mention tons of other health benefits - consider spinning at SoulCycle or lifting weights at Equinox, both right here at Hudson Yards

“Another easy fix: go out with friends and family. It’s natural to want to hibernate, but make the effort to leave the house - socializing and strong relationships are tightly correlated to happiness - there’s a mocktail or a meal with your name on it at The Restaurants.

The Health Center is a first-of-its-kind membership-based multi-specialty practice located at 55 Hudson Yards. Members receive access to primary and urgent care services, with same-day appointments and no-wait time, as well as specialty services that include dermatology, behavioral health, physical therapy, women’s health and x-ray.