Keeping Up With Health Through Winter

Illustrated by Jacqueline Davis Moranti

Despite the coming joys of the Holiday season, there is still plenty to be weary of this winter.
Cold weather provides a whole new set of obstacles for our health and can wreak havoc on our
bodies. However, with the right preparation, you can show winter who’s boss! Below are some
of my favorite tips to ensure your mind and body are in their best possible
state to combat the harsh elements.

• Keep It Moving

The winter months tend to make us lazier, I know for me personally, if the weather is intense, I'm not going out! Who truly wants to go outside if it’s snowing or the temperatures are below zero? While you may find that you're lacking motivation, breaking a sweat is crucial for both your physical and mental health. If you don’t want to venture into inclement weather, many streaming devices offer work out videos you can do in the comfort of your own home! These videos cater to all fitness levels and preferences. If you’re fortunate enough to live in a place that’s warmer year-round, take a brisk walk with ankle weights or bike ride to get your heart pumping. The key is to stay active!

• Stay Hydrated

Eight, eight ounce glasses per day is all you need to fulfill the daily recommendation of water consumption. Drinking water has more health benefits than you may think. In the winter months this is especially crucial because cold air tends to dry out your skin. Believe it or not, the amount of h2o you consume in beneficial to your brain function as well! Staying hydrated will negate these harsh
affects and also help to improve your energy levels which can be significantly lowered during
the cold season.

• Get Your Groom On

Establishing a grooming and beauty routine is so essential during the winter months. Cold weather
conditions can trigger skin outbreaks like acne and cold sores, which is why it’s important to be
preventative. Keeping your skin and lips moisturized is necessary as freezing temperatures can
easily dry them out. Look for moisturizers and balms that contain SPF, as UV rays from the sun
are still harmful despite the shorter days. If you have sensitive skin, opt for products that are
dye and fragrance free. For maximum effectiveness, make sure you are removing dead skin
cells by exfoliating. That means lips too! My favorite and also easiest DIY thing to do is get some brown sugar and coconut oil, put them into a small container to mix together and apply liberally to the lips to slough off dead skin.

• Feel Great On The Inside

While colder weather affects you externally, it can also do a number on your mental health.
seasonal affective disorder, is a real thing, but that doesn’t mean it has to take over. If you
suffer from this, it’s recommended you consult with your doctor. However, there are several lifestyle
changes you can make on your own to help combat it as well. Getting plentyyyyy of sleep,
practicing relaxation exercises like yoga and meditation, and avoiding drugs and alcohol are just a few of the ways you can improve the symptoms and lift your mood!

Being stuck inside can get quite boring and for some, it can even become depressing. S.A.D, or

Whatever you do this season, make sure to incorporate some of these tips (or all!) to feel better, be better and do better! Dear readers, what do you do for yourself throughout the winter season to keep sane and healthy?