Hello everyone, and happy New Year! As we embrace the dawn of a new year, January marks not only the beginning of a fresh calendar but also an opportunity to prioritize our health and well-being. It is well known that the cold season can be a challenge here in Québec for many reasons.
Winter wellness, however, goes beyond simply trying to avoid catching the common cold. It encompasses physical, mental, and emotional health. In the spirit of the new year and the cold weather ahead, I thought I’d review the little things that keep us strong during the winter months.
Keep your body healthy…
Maintaining an active lifestyle is essential, even in winter. The cold and lack of sunshine can reduce our energy, so why not take a brisk walk, join an online fitness class, or explore indoor activities like swimming or yoga? Physical activity not only keeps you warm but also helps improve circulation and lift your mood. Also importantly, make the most of winter’s longer nights by getting quality sleep.
Don’t forget to stay hydrated, as the dry winter air can contribute to dehydration. Warm herbal teas and broths are great choices to stay hydrated and they also get bonus points for being so comforting. As the temperature drops, our bodies may crave heartier meals. Embrace the season by incorporating nutrient-rich, warming foods into your diet. Opting for soups, stews, and roasted vegetables is a clever way to get all the nutrients you need and give your immune system a helping hand by ensuring you get enough vitamins and minerals.
Speaking of nutrition, be sure to find out what’s true or false when it comes to food by joining us at this month’s Wellness Café, To Eat or Not to Eat.
… and your mind peaceful!
The winter months can sometimes bring a sense of melancholy. In addition to exercise, a simple way to combat the winter blues is by incorporating mindfulness practices into your daily routine. If you are not familiar with mindfulness, it can sound a bit esoteric but please hear me out. Simple things like deep breathing exercises and simple relaxation techniques are proven to help manage stress and promote emotional well-being.
If you’re like me, you may also not feel like getting out of the house to meet people when it is dark and cold outside. Take action against winter isolation by maintaining social connections, as small as they might be. Studies show that even the most casual, fleeting contacts we have each day acquaintances or strangers, like in the street or a grocery store, can be very beneficial to our mental health.
Plan indoor activities with friends or family. Join community groups like our Brain Power Drop-in! Participate in virtual activities like those offered by the Cummings Centre (membership is only $30). If you are looking after a loved one, the Caring Chapters Club online book club for caregivers might just fit the bill starting in February.
Winter wellness is not just about surviving the cold; it’s about thriving in every aspect of your life. By adopting these practical tips, you can embrace the winter season with a healthy body, a peaceful mind, and a warm heart.
Here’s to a season of wellness and joy!
Anaïs
