Your Harmattan just got sweeter.

Just take a drive with me to the farm on foot. On getting to the farm, we realized we just forgot our farm tools.

What???

That is your face if you fail to read this to the end.??

Hello Health Enthusiasts,

It's almost 'wash and wear' season again??

The rains are pouring cat and dog this period showcasing its final dance moves before it finally bids us farewell this year.

You won't believe the rain has been pounding on my roof top since yesterday night as I write this.

As the Harmattan season approaches, our sunny days turn cooler, and the air feels crisp and dry.?

Temperature falls to as low as 9°C at night and rises to as high as 30°C during the day. If you reside in the Northern part of Nigeria, you already know what extreme weather conditions feel like, extremely hot during the day and a drastic switch to cold at night.?

While you might love it for my 'wash and wear' friends??,? this season is not without its added health challenges.?

You know, growing up saw me sneezing and coughing dry every November/December back then in my secondary school boarding house.

Believe me when I say that the headaches that come with it are second to none.

Preparing for Harmattan became a compulsory course for me to study??

You should take it seriously too.

Although most times, this flu gets resolved naturally, it is pretty discomforting while it lasts.

Don't self medicate if the flu persists, consult a doctor.

But hey, don't fret, though! I've got some handy tips to help you navigate the harmattan season with ease and stay in the pink of health.

?

??? Maintain a moisturized skin:

Harmattan's dry winds can be harsh on your skin, no doubt. Be sure to maintain its glow with the use of moisturizers. Apply a good jelly to avoid looking white like winter.? Employ humidifiers in your home during the harmattan season. They are good house assistants.?

?? Dealing with Respiratory Demons:

This is one of the common challenges posed by the harmattan season. Flus and nose bleeds get doubled or worsened. The dusty Harmattan winds can aggravate allergies and respiratory conditions. Tell me about it. I was a regular customer to the flu back in the day. Dust-proof your living space with air purifiers, and consider wearing a mask if you're spending extended time outdoors. Regularly clean and replace air filters to ensure cleaner air indoors.? I had some school mates whose asthmatic conditions worsened this period. So if you are asthmatic, you already know the drill, stay away from dust.

?? Stay Hydrated:

This is non-negotiable. Harmattan can be annoyingly drying. Keep a water bottle handy to sip throughout the day.? Hydrate from the inside out by drinking plenty of water. Herbal teas, broths, and warm soups can also help you stay hydrated and boost your immunity.

?? Protect your skin:

Remember your skin and the sun are two parallel lines that can never meet. Shield your skin from harmful UV rays. Harmattan sunshine can be intense, and sunscreen is your best friend. Don't forget to wear protective clothing like long sleeves and hats when stepping out.?

What about the pesky cracked feet and lips? Ensure you protect your feet with socks and use wet lips on your lips.

?? Protect your eyes:

Your eyes are your priceless assets and you need to keep them safe during the harmattan period. Use eye glasses to protect them from the dust. In case you contract conjunctivitis (Apollo - Red eyes), use glasses to prevent the spread. This usually gets resolved but if it persists, consult your doctor.

?? Eat nutritious foods:

Fruits and veggies are great for your nourishment. Embrace them. Stock up on fruits and veggies rich in vitamins and antioxidants to support your immune system. Oranges, carrots, and leafy greens are your go-to.

?? Keep your home comfortable:

Of course, after a hard day's stress during the harmattan, your home is your retirement facility for the night. Ensure you keep it cozy and comfortable. Soft blankets, warm lighting, and the aroma of essential oils can make a big difference in your well-being during the cooler evenings.

?? Take care of yourself:

Prioritize self care. Don't forget to take care of your mental health. Long warm water baths, reading, and meditation can help you unwind and recharge. Cool music to calm your nerves with a good massage isn't a bad idea.

?? Conclusion:

Harmattan can be beautiful and enjoyable if we take the right steps to safeguard our health. Stay well-hydrated, protect your skin, and keep your indoor environment clean and dust-free. It's all about embracing the season while taking care of yourself. Here's to a healthier, happier Harmattan!

Stay healthy and enjoy the coming season.

Chimdimma Nwachukwu,

Healthy Lifestyle Newsletter.

FAQ

1. When is harmattan period?Ans: Harmattan spans from the ending of November to mid March.
2. Is harmattan the same as winter? Ans: Harmattan differs from winter. Harmattan occurs in West African countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, etc. while winter occurs in the western countries such as the United States and United Kingdom, etc. Harmattan is characterized by dry air and cold with fluctuations in temperature while winter experiences snowfalls.
3. What businesses do well in harmattan? Ans: Second hand clothings popularly known as okirika mostly cardigans and long socks to keep the cold away. Tea and soup sellers make a lot of gains during the harmattan season while club owners suffer loss. Any business that deals with keeping the cold away will naturally thrive in the harmattan. Try any of them.