Bundle yourself in scarves and knitted hats because the colder, shorter days of winter are here. Lower temperatures, less sunlight, and holiday schedules are all challenges to keeping active during the winter months. But hibernating through winter can take a toll on your physical and mental health. Try these tips to keep moving this winter.
Keep your warm-weather interests alive by creating an off-season version. If you love the companionship of your golf foursome, invite them to meet you at an indoor golf center or the gym for a game of pickleball. If you enjoy a hike in the woods, bundle up and head to your favorite trail to see it transformed by a new season.
You don’t need to invest thousands of dollars to create a space for movement in your home. But dedicating space to healthy movement may help keep you motivated. Choose a portion of your basement, garage, or spare bedroom—anywhere that can accommodate you moving your body. You don’t need any equipment—look for exercises that use your own body weight as resistance. You can also try stretching, marching in place, or chair yoga to start. Low-cost workout equipment might include five-pound weights, resistance bands, or a second-hand bike or treadmill.
Outdoor activities like walking, running, or taking the dog out for an extended stroll are all great ways to stay active. But if you aren’t dressed for the weather, it can range from unpleasant to downright dangerous. Dress in layers of warm, appropriate fabrics that protect you from the wind and cold. Don’t forget warm socks and insulated shoes or boots.
Winter won’t seem as long if you adopt a new interest that you can only enjoy when the temperature drops. Winter hiking, snowshoeing, skiing, ice-skating, or even sledding are all possibilities. Look for classes or places to rent equipment to try new activities with minimal investment.
Winter can be a stressor: the stress of the holidays, the limited daylight, cold and flu season, and lower temps are all challenges to your immune system, emotional well-being, and overall health. Don’t forget to take care of the basics like getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, and eating healthy meals. Maintaining good health makes getting active easier and more fun.
The best part about discovering how to stay active in mind and body during winter is that you get to be creative. Be curious. There is no right or wrong, only what feels best for you. Find an activity that fuels your passions and take time to explore it deeper. Remember, you can own your health. Even Old Man Winter can’t stop you!
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