As the cold weather rolls in, your thoughts may turn to snow, staying warm, and enjoying the holidays. At the same time, you are more likely to deal with health issues during the winter, which means you need to make an extra effort to keep yourself healthy. You can’t prevent every health issue, but there are some steps you can take.
Watch Out for Seasonal Depression
It isn’t uncommon for people to speak of having the “winter blues.” There is less sunshine during the day–and bad weather can keep people cooped up–which all leads to feeling a little extra down. Additionally, some people suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Unlike the winter blues, SAD is actual depression that usually starts affecting people during the fall and lasts through the winter months. Many things could cause SAD, but it is important to get proper treatment, regardless of the cause. Keep an eye out for symptoms such as oversleeping, loss of interest, anxiety, and trouble concentrating.
Prepare for Cold and Flu Season
The cold and flu season peaks in the winter, but not directly because of the weather. The old wives’ tale of getting caught in the rain isn’t why you got a cold, but it could play a role. When it is cold or there is bad weather, more people spend time inside together, which makes it easier for colds and the flu to spread from person to person.
The best prevention for this is to get your flu shot and to practice good hygiene. You should stock up on hand sanitizer and soap to keep your hands clean. If you start feeling under the weather, make sure you get plenty of rest and eat nutritiously to give your immune system plenty of energy to fight off the virus.
Keep Up with Regular Exercise
If you usually go for a run or workout outside, it can be easy to let your routine slip a little during the winter. It is harder to get up in the morning when it is cold to get a workout in before work or school, but keeping up with regular exercise is important. Exercising when it is cold can actually burn more calories, so you don’t have to do as much to be as effective. Just make sure you warm up and cool down properly still. If you do decide to go for a run or do some other kind of outdoor exercise, make sure you check the weather, dress properly, and let someone know where you are going.
Just because it is cold outside doesn’t mean you have to spend all of your time sick. Taking proper precautions and taking care of your body is the best way to keep yourself feeling 100% all year round. You might even find a new favorite way to exercise.
Did you enjoy this article? Here’s more to read: Everyday Activities That Can Improve Your Health Outcomes
