Look after your health and wellness this season.
As the chill of winter sets in, it can make us want to imitate the bears and just hibernate for the season. Fortunately, rest and relaxation certainly deserve a place in our winter plans!
This is a great time of year to embrace a slower pace of life and focus on our well-being. That said, there are also plenty of handy winter wellness tips that can help us build activity into our lives while the weather is colder.
Check out these winter wellness tips to keep your mind and body feeling their best this season:
- Try indoor workouts
- Soak up some sun (or invest in a sun lamp)
- Stay connected with others
- Eat for comfort and health
- Prioritize sleep
- Don’t skip the sunscreen
- Stay hydrated
- Practice cold weather safety
- Embrace winter hobbies
- Develop mindfulness habits
As with any health tips, be sure to check in with your doctor before adding any new exercise or wellness-related activity to your routine. Now, let’s learn about how to follow these winter wellness tips in the face of colder temperatures and shorter days!
Try indoor workouts
During the winter, it can be hard to indulge in your favorite outdoor exercises like a daily walking routine, bicycling, or swimming. But there are still plenty of fun ways to keep up your fitness without even leaving your house! Some of our favorite ways to stay active indoors include yoga, video workouts, and simple weight lifting. There are even exercises you can do in just five minutes a day!
Soak up some sun (or invest in a sun lamp)
Shorter days and less outdoor time also mean less exposure to sunlight, which can lead to Vitamin D deficiency and possibly seasonal depression. Make a conscious effort to get outside during daylight hours, even if it’s just for a short walk. Natural sunlight boosts your mood and provides essential Vitamin D. Alternatively, consider investing in a sun lamp, especially if you live in an area with limited sunlight.
Stay connected with others
Once the social hustle and bustle of the holidays has worn off, winter can sometimes bring a sense of isolation. That’s why it’s essential to stay connected with friends and family. Plan virtual or in person gatherings, phone calls, or seasonal activities together. Social connections are crucial for mental (and even physical!) health, so maintaining them during the winter months can help combat feelings of loneliness and seasonal affective disorder. CapTel captioned telephones can help you communicate easily over the phone with hearing loss.
Eat for comfort and health
Winter often tempts us with our favorite comfort foods and desserts, but these always taste best when enjoyed in moderation. Focus on balancing your meals with a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and heart-healthy proteins. Seasonal produce like citrus fruits, root vegetables, and dark leafy greens can provide essential nutrients to support your immune system and overall health. Check out some of these healthy holiday recipes and one-pot winter meal ideas.
Prioritize sleep
A well-rested body and mind are foundational to feeling your best, and the longer nights of winter offer an excellent opportunity to revamp your sleep habits. Create a relaxing bedtime routine, ensure your bedroom is conducive to sleep (cool and dark), and aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night.
Don’t skip the sunscreen
Even in the winter, the sun can have a significant impact on your skin. Snow can reflect up to 80% of UV rays, increasing your exposure risk. It’s still healthy to spend time outside — just apply sunscreen (particularly on your face and ears) before heading out the door. Opt for a broad-spectrum type with an SPF of at least 30, and reapply as often as the instructions advise.
Stay hydrated
Similarly, it’s easy to forget about hydration when the weather is colder, and sweating feels like a distant memory — but your body still needs an adequate amount of water to function optimally. Dry, cold air and central heating systems can dehydrate your skin and body, too. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, and consider warm beverages like herbal teas and broths for an extra dose of comfort.
Practice cold weather safety
For our senior readers, it’s crucial to observe some specific winter wellness tips related to cold weather safety and fall prevention. Take extra precautions such as dressing warmly in layers, wearing non-slip shoes, and being mindful of icy surfaces. Review our cold weather safety tips for seniors, plus extra fall prevention tips to make sure you stay safe throughout the season.
Embrace winter hobbies
Whether you want to find hobbies that get you outside or keep you busy indoors, there are plenty of fun seasonal activities for you to enjoy! Whether you build a snowman with the grandkids, hit the slopes or the ice skating rink, or give snowshoeing a try, outdoor hobbies will keep you active and boost your mood. Cold-weather indoor activities might include crafting, reading, baking, or volunteering in your community.
Develop mindfulness habits
The winter season can be hectic with holidays and year-end tasks. Take time for yourself through mindfulness practices like meditation and deep breathing. These techniques help reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance your overall well-being. Continue doing them in the later part of winter as things slow down to boost your appreciation of life and get in tune with yourself.
With these winter wellness tips in hand, you’re ready to embrace the beauty of winter while caring for your physical and mental health! Next, don’t miss these tips for protecting your hearing in colder weather.
