Tag Archives: self care

Self Care Tips for Winter

As the crisp air of autumn settles in and the chill of winter approaches, our bodies and minds undergo a transformation that calls for a renewed focus on health and well-being. The shift in seasons brings a unique set of challenges, from the onset of cold and flu season to the struggle against seasonal affective disorder (SAD). However, with informed preparation and intentional choices, we can not only navigate these months with resilience but also thrive in them. Research indicates that our immune systems can be bolstered through proper nutrition, regular physical activity, and mindfulness practices, empowering us to face the colder months with vigor. In this article, we’ll explore practical and actionable health tips tailored for the fall and winter seasons, providing you with the tools to enhance your well-being and embrace the beauty of these transformative months.

#1  Start taking a Vitamin D supplement. 

We get most of our Vitamin D from the sun, so our intake decreases when the weather is colder since we spend most of our time inside during the fall/winter seasons. If you find you are not getting outside much, a Vitamin D supplement can boost your mood and immune system!

#2  Moisturize your skin. 

Harsh temperatures can make your skin dry.

#3 Make some plans for the cold months. 

In the winter, we tend to hibernate if we don’t have things to keep us busy.  Find time to read those books you have been planning to read…maybe now is the time to do some binge-watching of fave tv shows.

#4 Buy in-season food. 

Beets, broccoli, cabbage, eggplant, kale, pumpkin, broths, roasted squash, roots, and sautéed dark leafy greens are all great choices.

#5 Stay active! 

It can be easy to just sit around all the time, but it’s important to get in some movement throughout the day. Raking leaves or shoveling snow counts!

#6 Wear layers and protect your body from the dropping temperature. 

Make sure you have gloves, a scarf, ear muffs, a winter coat, warm socks, and snow boots!

#7 Prepare your home for possible extreme weather conditions. 

Do you have a shovel and/or snow blower? Do your flashlights have batteries? Is your heat working okay?

Conclusion

As we wrap ourselves in cozy sweaters and savor the warmth of seasonal delights, remember that prioritizing your health during the fall and winter is not merely a necessity but an opportunity. By implementing the strategies discussed, you equip yourself with the knowledge and habits that not only shield you from common ailments but also elevate your mood and vitality. Embrace the nourishing power of seasonal foods, the invigorating benefits of regular exercise, and the calming effects of mindfulness practices. Each small step contributes to a larger journey toward holistic wellness. This season is not just about enduring the cold; it’s a chance to cultivate resilience, gratitude, and a renewed appreciation for the rhythms of nature. Let this fall and winter be a period of growth and empowerment, where you take charge of your health and well-being with confidence and joy.

What are some of your favorite self-care tips for Winter? 

 

Latest News from Charmaine: September 2019

Greetings all!

Well, as we pass the Labor Day holiday we really begin to recognize that Summer has passed and we move into one of my FAVE seasons..FALL.   I love the colors and smells and food and rituals associated with this time of the year and it is always nice to settle into a routine again.

Altho’ there is one thing we need to be aware of  and that is taking care of ourselves.  With the kids/grandkids back at school and all the attendant events that this generates, we really need to be sure that we carve at least 1 day a week ( worse case scenario a ½ day but not a top choice) and make time to chill as a family…time to go for a tramp in the woods and decompress or go to some fun event where everybody can let their hair down a little and just enjoy.  There are lots of farmers markets, harvest festivals, and craft festivals around where you can meander, browse, and just chill as a means to decompress. As the colder weather approaches, how about game nights (trivial pursuit style, I mean).

Another way to decompress is find some activity like Yoga, Tai Chi, or sports related activities as a great form of exercise and a way to blow off steam. Check out my yoga class schedule. I’d love to have you join! 

I love my yoga and my power lifting and feel so recharged after a session.  I just competed in The Michigan Senior Olympics for the 6th time and have another competition at the end of September.

SEE YOU IN THE OFFICE, ON THE MAT UNDER THE BARBELLS OR AROUND TOWN

fall leaves

Latest News from Charmaine: October Newsletter: Self-Care

Latest newsGreetings all,

Happy Fall..altho’ Mother Nature seems somewhat confused herself as to what is going on in her world.

As Fall settles in, we really need to be aware of our own self-care.  If the media is to be believed, this is Flu and cold season.

Well…. BAD NEWS.

There is actually no such a thing as a Flu/cold season except in the minds of Big Pharma.

 

What there really is, is…

  • A lack of adequate hydration because we don’t feel thirsty.
  • A lack of exercise for many reasons related to a lack of priority….Exercise is vital and it needs to be prioritized and not be the first thing to go when the schedule gets funky. If it means an early start to your day than there are no excuses needed later on.
  • A lack of fresh air….bundle up and get out for a walk– it will do you good…remember sitting is the new smoking!!
  • A lack of adequate rest.
  • A lack of fresh fruit and veggies in the diet.   I make 3-5 salads in a bottle/tupperware container on Sunday evening (ask me if you want details) for the week, especially to eat them after my lunch-time training session…No excuses and I save myself the temptation of eating something I will only regret.  Remember living raw food does not come thru’ a drive thru window!

Stay safe…see you on the table, under the barbells, on the yoga mat or around town!