Tips For Maintaining Your Wellness During The Winter Season

Keeping healthy and happy during the winter months can be challenging. Thankfully, Great Lakes Wellness has some helpful tips to keep you going strong no matter what the weather is like outside. Learn how to maintain your physical and mental health in the colder months. 

Physical health in the winter months

Stay Hydrated 


One of the best ways to keep your body healthy during the winter is to drink plenty of water. You may find that you are less thirsty or experience mild dehydration symptoms such as dry mouth, headache, nausea, and dizziness. Drink a glass of water with every meal and drink at least two liters of water daily.  

Staying hydrated can help ward off colds and flu in the winter months when we're not feeling up to par. If you want to up your wellness game you can also mix in Great Lakes Collagen Hydrolysate to supplement and support your joint health, promote healthy skin, and support strong hair and nails.
 

Don't Forget about Exercise 


Exercise is a great way to keep your energy up and maintain your wellness throughout the winter. Whether you like to go for a run or take up yoga, it's essential to maintain your physical health. And don't forget about mental health; exercise that mind! That means reading, doing crossword puzzles, playing Chess, learning a new skill, or writing. Activities that use your cognitive abilities will help keep your mind sharp! 

Exercise your mind with crossword puzzles

Just as with exercise, this doesn't have to be something new every day; try sticking with what you enjoy most and make sure it's challenging enough to remain interesting. These activities are more than just exercises—they help you establish healthier habits and will leave you feeling more energized during the chilly season. 

Use Technology for Success 


Find an app with a workout video to do inside. This is the perfect time to take advantage of all the technology at our fingertips. Watch a video that will help you stay healthy and active during these long winter months. Apps such as YouTube, Fit TV, or even your favorite social media sites like Facebook and TikTok are great ways to access exercise videos on demand. You can also find resources for different workouts, such as yoga, Pilates, dance fitness, and more! 

Using Technology for Workouts

Continue Great Habits from Summer 


Stick to your same sleep schedule. Our bodies start to slow down in the winter, so it is essential to follow your body's natural rhythms and get the rest you need. We recommend going to bed when you start feeling tired and waking up when you feel rested. Give yourself time to adjust to a new sleep schedule, but try not to go more than an hour earlier or later than your regular wake-up time for at least two weeks. 

Health Habits and Your Sleep Schedule

Eat Healthy Foods 


When the cool air hits, the desire for comfort foods soon follows. You can still indulge, just be thoughtful in your meal planning. Instead of making a cream-based soup for instance, go for a broth-based soup to get the warmth and avoid the heaviness. If you are craving a hearty bowl of soup, add some antioxidant-rich vegetables such as carrots, celery, and onions to your broth. You can also try adding ginger, garlic, or turmeric to the pot for anti-inflammatory benefits.
 
Great Lakes Wellness has some healthy recipes to help you maintain wellness this winter: Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup is a warm dish loaded with vegetables and carbohydrates from potatoes. It's low in fat and high in protein, making it a great recovery meal after a challenging workout.  

Still craving some creaminess with a healthy twist? This warm and comforting Cauliflower Soup with spiced chickpeas contains a hearty helping of collagen.  

Cauliflower Soup with Collagen

Take Advantage of Professional Services If Needed 


As the weather changes, your healthy habits may need a tune-up. Take advantage of professional services available to maintain your physical and mental wellness throughout the winter. For example, you may be less inclined to exercise or spend time outdoors, which may lead to vitamin deficiencies, muscle weakness, or even shifts in your mental health. Scheduling a few sessions with a personal trainer can help keep you motivated. Physical, occupational, and massage therapists can help with recovery, sore muscles, and relaxation. Your physician can recommend nutritional products that fit your needs. And meeting with a therapist, psychologist, or counselor gives you an opportunity to explore your thoughts and manage life's varied challenges. 
 
How are you making wellness a priority this winter? Share your own experiences, wisdom, and stories about healthy aging on Instagram and tag us @greatlakeswellness.  

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