As cold weather approaches, you may begin to notice changes in your mind and body that can have a significant impact on your daily, healthy actions. Don’t worry too much, though. Science around certain lifestyle habits have promising benefits. That's why I have created 7 of my top cold weather habits that I think are worth sharing.Boost your digestive and immune systems. Try drinking a cup of warm water in the morning with lemon, ginger and honey. If you’re really brave, try a shot glass of apple cider vinegar.Have a weekday self care regimen. Monday through Friday I am in bed by 9pm; occasionally earlier and 10pm at the very latest. (Don't let the daylight changes fool you—it's important to get your 7-9 hours of sleep every night.) Then I wake up around 5-5:30am every morning to begin my day with some sort of self-care and WAKE UP practice, whether it be breathing, journaling, meditation, walking and/or exercise. Eat seasonal fruits and veggies. With cold weather comes a heap of root vegetables like carrots, beets, and parsnips—alongside immune boosting citrus fruits. Hearty potato and winter squash dishes can now pair nicely with a dark green leafy side and a pomegranate inspired dessert.
Protect your sinuses.Use a nasal rinse like a netti pot with warm salt water to manage sinus irritation, inflammation and congestion. Depending on the severity of the congestion, I may do this both morning and night.Consume warm foods and beverages. This will help keep your internal and external self grounded in the cold weather.Stretch your aching muscles. Cold weather can often exacerbate new muscular injuries and/or make old ones more noticeable. Make sure you take additional time daily to stretch out those aches and pains.Use essential oils to enhance your breathing practice. A combination of peppermint, laurel leaf, eucalyptus, lemon, cardamom and other respiratory-supporting essential oils can help you improve and maintain a fluid breathing technique during the colder months. Using a practice of 4-part breathing and some deep intentional cleansing breathes can warm up the body and help you rid yourself of seasonal stress.Click HERE to learn more about the Wellview services available to you. We can’t wait to work with you!
– CASEY EDMONDS, CHC
Health Advisor | Email Casey
