Winter is here, it’s cold and it’s not going anywhere for a while. So often when it’s cold out we all want to stay inside, maybe snuggle up under a blanket, drink some hot chocolate. This can be a great thing from time to time but if we do it all season long we may not recognize ourselves by the time spring finally hits. So what can we do to not have to start over when the warm weather hits?
To start, pay attention to what you’re eating. In the winter we are surrounded by rich and fattening foods. While these are not all bad be sure that you’re eating good fats (unrefined and organic oils for example) and keep it within reason. Instead of the hot chocolate try tea and limit yourself to one cookie. Take a little time each week to plan and prep your meals. When you make your own food you know exactly what you’re taking in. Try using local maple syrup instead of sugar in your oatmeal or coffee, or whole wheat flour when you bake. Instead of beef stew make a hardy vegetable barley soup.
Stay active! Take up an outdoor winter activity. If you aren’t a skier try snowshoeing or just bundling up and going for short walks. No matter what you do, be sure to dress appropriately for the temperature and get out there. Embrace indoor workouts. Gyms are all around and there are classes from cycling to yoga. Staying active is a lot easier if you’re having fun so find something you enjoy and consider finding a friend to workout with you.
Do your best to stick to a schedule. Our bodies like rhythm and repetition. Wake up, eat and do your best to sleep at the same time every day. Set yourself small achievable goals and when you reach them reward yourself and set a new goal. Cold weather sticks around for a long time and we can’t ignore our health because of it. Regular massage and acupuncture can help you improve your overall health and help you stick to your goals. If this sounds like something you are interested in, don’t hesitate and schedule an appointment today.
