Protecting yourself against harmattan hazards
The harmattan season is one that we sometimes anticipate with delight. The reason for this may not be unconnected to the cold weather that comes with the season- a good way of being free from the sweltering heat of summer. However, despite the cold weather attainable during this season, there are yet several hazards that are inherent with harmattan, and this is basically owing to the fact that the season is synonymous with dust and dry air- it is no wonder that harmattan is sometimes referred to as 'dust devil'. It is to this effect that it becomes necessary to take certain precautionary and/or safety measures towards maintaining wholeness especially as it regards checking cracked lips, dry skins and other health complications that may arise as a result of harmattan. I shall henceforth share some tips on how you can manage the situation as the (harmattan) season rolls by.
Drink a lot of water
Ordinarily, 'water is life', and that is not a fact that can be debated when one considers that over 70% of the human body is composed of water- or fluid if one chooses to be more technical. With the chances of one getting dehydrated being on the high side during harmattan, it becomes necessary to take a lot of water [during this season]; you do not have to wait until you are thirst before reaching for a glass of water. It is advisable to have a water bottle [filled with water] on hand while you are on the go.
Regular use of moisturizers
It is a known fact that during harmattan season, the lips and skin are susceptible to drying out fast hence moisturizers are really handy to have around- in the home and in one's bag. Lip balm is good for preventing chapped lips while body cream will help to moisturize the skin, and also stop the occurrence of white patches on the skin.
Wear protective gear
The dust that is blown around by the wind can settle anywhere, and that includes the human body system. As such, it is expedient that one uses protective gear to provide some form of cover from the dust. For instance, putting on a pair of sunglasses while you are outdoor will protect the eyes from dust while using a nose mask should help safeguard the nose especially in areas that have so much dust- this will prevent the dust from settling in the respiratory tract where damage could be done. Furthermore, insulating clothing apparels should be worn to keep you from the cold that is feasible during the season.
Take a lot of fruits
It is also good to find pleasure in taking fruits- juicy ones to be precise- during this season. This would provide you with some essential vitamins and minerals, and also help to keep you hydrated. Fruits such as pineapple, carrot, orange, cucumber and watermelon will do you a lot of good. Plus, you should also go for vegetables and diets that are rich in protein during this very period.
Minimize your exercises
The heavy presence of dust and reduction in the oxygen level can make breathing quite difficult in some instances. It is for this reason that one has to play it safe by planning an exercise routine that is not so demanding or one that pushes [an individual] to the limit- no one wants to find himself/herself gasping for breath all in the name of staying fit. So, a light walk or jogging exercise might just do for the time being.