There must be a reason why bears hibernate in the winter. Winter can be tough on our bodies. We tend to pay less attention to our health for some reason and let ourselves go over the course of the cold winter months. But don’t let that keep you from looking after yourself. Here are some tips to help you stay healthier this winter.

1. Exercise. This is a must at all times. During the winter, we’re much more likely to cut back or cut out exercise altogether. Take time at least three to four times a week to get your heart rate up through some form of aerobic exercise. We tend to spend less time outdoors as the weather makes it more difficult to brave the elements. Go to the gym, play hockey or skate, ski or snowboard, or even just walk stairs at lunch.

2. Get more light. It gets dark much earlier in the evening and stays dark much later in the morning. Studies have shown that this can lead to mild to severe depression during the winter. One of the best ways to combat this is to get more sunlight. If you can’t take a vacation to warmer, brighter climates, sit in front of a high watt bulb (250w is good) for 10-20 minutes several times a day if possible.

3. Protect yourself from the cold. If you do need to venture outside, be sure to bundle up. Dress in several layers and always protect yourself with a coat, hat, gloves, and scarf. When coming back inside, allow yourself to warm slowly and wait a few minutes before you remove layers. Have a hearty soup in the evening and oatmeal in the morning to warm your innards. You will find several great recipes on this site.

4. Protect against carbon monoxide. Do you have a carbon monoxide monitor in the house? Be sure to have your fireplace cleaned and your heater checked by a professional (especially if it’s older). This will help protect you against carbon monoxide poisoning, which can make you sick or even kill you.

5. Cut the stress. Holidays can leave us burnt out and more susceptible to colds, flu, and other illnesses. Be sure to keep taking your daily vitamins and include Primorye in your regimen. It will help boost your immune system and relieve stress at the same time. Set some time aside each day for relaxing. Take a warm bath, read your favorite book, or take up yoga.

6. Control your portions. Many of us use eating as a way to combat seasonal depression and the temptation of holiday goodies can help us pack on unhealthy unwanted pounds. Control your portions. Eat a small snack before large meals and bring a healthy snack with you to work or school. Be sure to get some protein and fresh fruits and vegetables with every meal.

7. Visit a naturopath or homeopathic practitioner. Make sure everything is in order physically. The cold winter months provide an indoor breeding ground for the flu and other illnesses. Protect yourself.

8. Wash you hands. Diseases like colds and flu are much more prevalent in the winter because everyone stays inside where they’re more likely to pass around germs. Protect yourself by regularly washing your hands with a natural soap.

9. Everything in moderation. Whether you’re going out for a run, shoveling the driveway, or even going to the gym, don’t push yourself too hard physically. Exercise is good, but you don’t need to do it in excess. Too much activity stresses your body and can pose serious health risks.

10. Take your supplements. Be rigorous and disciplined about taking the big 3: Foundation Formula for overall health insurance & protection, Primorye® for stress relief and immune system support and Lifeshots™ for complete antioxidant protection.

Filed under: Aerobic, Daily Supplements, Exercise, Food, Nutrition Supplements by Healthman
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