Staying Active and Well This Winter

By Donna Stark

When the winter chill sets in, the idea of hibernation starts to sound really good because there simply isn't anything better than cozy blankets, delicious comfort food, and late mornings in bed. But instead of giving in to the idea of hunkering down, and pushing all your health and wellness goals to the side, why don't you do something else? Why don't you find ways to stay committed to your overall well-being while also continuing to stay safe, healthy, and warm? Here are some suggestions.

Fight the Cold and Flu

Everyone knows that cold and flu cases peak during the winter months, so do your part and take a stand against these seasonal illnesses. Make sure everyone in your home is washing their hands frequently and keeping their fingers away from their faces. When the weekend comes, ask for help to sanitize the home and as a thank you, treat the family to a movie, game, or pizza night.

Make Comfort Food Healthy

We all love our comfort food during the winter, but with the rich flavors, creamy sauces, and decadent desserts, our comfort food isn't always the healthiest. This makes it the best time to come up with a fun challenge that will bring the entire family together. Hold a healthy "comfort food" cookoff or take turns cooking alternative recipes each week. It's a great way to encourage lighter and more nutritious meals without sacrificing what everyone is looking for ... warmth and comfort.

Exercise Every Day

Who said you can't stay active when the temperatures begin to drop? Sometimes, heading out in the cold (dressed appropriately, of course) is more fun than heading to the beach in the summer! So, grab your layers, hats, and gloves and get moving! Take the family for a walk, jog, or hike during the week, and for fun on the weekends, hit the slopes or head to an indoor ice-skating rink! In addition to lifting everyone's mood, their overall health and wellness will be improved.

Keep Your Sleep Routine

You may be watching more movies and TV shows during the winter, but don't use that as an excuse to lose sleep by staying up into the wee hours of the morning! Sleep deprivation is an immunity killer and now is not the time to get sick! It's important to stay as consistent as you can with your sleep schedule so make sure you are going to bed and waking up at the same times every day.

Don't Hibernate! Stay Active and Well

Interested in discovering more ways on how to stay active and well during the winter? Head on in to see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic today. They have plenty of ideas that will help you fight the urge to hibernate! Come see for yourself!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Denver, Colo.