Stay Healthy All Winter!
By Sara Butler
Just because it's colder outside doesn’t mean you need to stop moving around and go into hibernation mode this winter. On the contrary, making sure you remain active throughout the winter is going to be one of the most important things you can do to remain healthy and free of illness. Here are a few tips to keep your body moving and your mood up all winter long.
Let the Sun Shine
Even though it’s bitter outside, you still want to get out and get some sunshine. Sure, the cold makes it more difficult, but your body needs sunlight to make Vitamin D, a vitamin really important to your mood and overall health. Try to get out in the sun for at least 10 minutes a day. This will help you to chase those winter blues away! A brisk walk in the afternoon is a great option.
Volunteer
When you work to help other people it makes you happy, and if you’re in a good mood then you may be less likely to skip other activities that make you feel good, such as exercise. Taking care of yourself, then taking care of others to make you happier, is a great cycle to get into throughout the winter. So find somewhere to volunteer such as a nursing home or an animal shelter – something that gets you out of your house and gives you something to look forward to.
Try New Recipes
There are all kinds of great foods that come into season during the winter, so think outside of the box – the recipe box! Research and try some new recipes utilizing things that are in season such as winter squash. This will help you to feel better physically and mentally as you go on a bit of a winter culinary adventure!
Try Natural Cleaning Products
The air quality inside over the winter can get pretty questionable. It’s not like you can throw open the windows to let some fresh air in. There are things you can do to improve the air quality in your home in the winter. Try using natural cleaning products by making your own. Baking soda, vinegar, Borax, and lemons are great and natural things to utilize around you home. They’ll keep things clean and shiny and remove the toxic cleaning chemicals from your home that you might normally use.
Also, consider cultivating some indoor plants. They can have an impact on your mood and improve the air quality in your home. If you don’t have a green thumb you can easily raise a spider plant, it doesn’t need much time or attention and it’s a great natural air filter!