Prepping Your Body for the Winter Season

By Donna Stark

What have you been doing to prepare for the upcoming winter season? Have you changed the tires on your car, made sure your home heating system works, and pulled the snow shovels out of storage? Or, have you taken the steps to improve your overall well-being? While making sure your home and car are ready for the winter season, it's equally as important to prep your body as well! Here are some simple ways you can take care of yourself and your loved ones during the next few weeks.

Prioritize Quality Sleep

Although everyone knows how important sleep is, few people actually make it one of their top priorities. And that's unfortunate because the time we are asleep is the time our bodies need the most. Sleep is the body's main time to heal, recharge, and refresh. It's the time when our memories are filtered and stored, when our cells are repaired (hello stronger immune system), and when the body balances itself out. Simply put, we can't go without sleep so try to aim for at least seven solid hours every night.

Stay Committed to Exercise

Are you generally an active person who hits the gym several times or more a week? If so, keep at it! But if you are not, the winter season is the perfect time to make some changes. Daily exercise is a great way to improve heart health, reduce stress, manage weight, and increase mobility. On top of that, it will help increase your energy levels too! When you pick an exercise, make sure it is something you enjoy so there won't be any problem staying committed and remember, every step counts! Set a goal to exercise at least 30 minutes a day.

Load up on Nutrients

This list wouldn't be complete if we didn't mention your diet. While the upcoming celebrations and treats are inevitable, make sure the majority of the food you eat is healthy. Be sure to drink the recommended amount of water each day and include plenty of vegetables, fruit, healthy fats, and lean proteins. If you can't avoid dessert, just be sure to choose wisely. Sharing with a loved one is a good way to satisfy your sweet tooth without overeating.

Prepping for Optimal Health

Don't let the craziness that occurs during this time of year keep you from prioritizing your well-being. Try to remember the suggestions above during the next couple of weeks so you can get the most out of this beautiful season!

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