Staying Active
The cold winter months can be difficult on everyone, often times with less motivation to stay active. This can be a roadblock in many people’s physical activity goals. The CDC has some tips on how to stay active during the winter months.
- Take nature walks. Weather permitting, schedule time during the day to enjoy nature. Take a stroll around a safe neighborhood or park.
- Monitor the weather and plan ahead. Weather forecasts give several days’ notice to prepare your week. Be sure to monitor the weather, dress appropriately, and plan your winter activity accordingly.
- Wear layers. Wear several layers of comfortable clothing so that items can be removed easily as you become warmer. Layers will help you guard against overheating, sweating, and eventually becoming colder.
- Workout online. Consider tuning into a TV, online, live Zoom, or Instagram workout class. Find free or low-cost exercise videos online to help you do aerobics, dance, stretch, and build strength.
- Do some chores. When bad weather keeps you from going outside, look for ways to be physically active indoors. Housework such as vacuuming, sweeping, and cleaning all count towards your physical activity goals. And you’ll knock out some items on your to-do list while gaining health benefits. Walking or running up and downstairs in your home can be a great workout too.
- Volunteer in active ways. Help others while helping yourself. Look for volunteer opportunities that involve physical activity such as walking dogs for elderly neighbors or shoveling snow.
Fight the Sickness
Along with physical activity providing many benefits for physical bodily health, it also can help fight off sicknesses during the winter. It is hard to avoid the common cold during these winter months but the Mayo Clinic shares a few words about exercising during sickness.
“Exercise may even help you feel better by opening your nasal passages and temporarily relieving nasal congestion. Mild to moderate physical activity is usually okay if you have a common cold and no fever.”
Edward R. Laskowski, M.D.
Staying active in the winter is important for both physical and mental health and wellbeing. Strive to keep your body moving during these months and try a few of the tips out above!
To learn even more ways to stay healthy and active during the winter months click here.
