The Beaver Moon, also called the Frost Moon, is when everything truly settles into the colder season. This was the time to set beaver traps before the swamps froze, to ensure a supply of warm winter furs. Another interpretation suggests that the name Full Beaver Moon comes from the fact that the beavers are now actively preparing for winter. It is sometimes also referred to as the Frosty Moon. Beavers are preparing for winter, and you can, too.

♠ I get my last hair cut and color before the new year. During the holidays it is much too crazy for me to think about carving out time to get something done. Better to get it done now, than not at all until…March.

♠ Stock up all your cold & flu remedies, and catch them before they start with vitamins and daily lemon water with ginger. If that doesn’t appeal to you, Real Simple has some other ideas for prevention, like taking a daily brisk walk, wash your hands more frequently than you would.

♠ Design Sponge also has a great list of the creative community’s favorite prevention tips.

♠ Walk around your house and think about insulation. Are there drafts that need to be re-caulked, or perhaps a “snake” can help keep out the cold?

♠ Bird and Moon has a great little comic about how to take your winter cues from animals: