The desert winter is overstaying its welcome. For months, we’ve been sitting here waiting for snow. No White Christmas arrived. There’s only been one day when we received 1/2 ” of snow. That’s pathetic. It HAS been bitterly cold and very, very sunny, tricking our brains into thinking it’s time for yard work. In reality, it’s just too cold. Glamour needs to wait. Hoodies and sweatpants are far more functional on the last day of January. Staying healthy after recovering from Influenza A takes more than avoiding winter’s chill.
These days, I’m I’m not getting enough sunshine. That’s where Vitamin D swoops in like the superhero it is. This wonder nutrient helps regulate your immune system and keep your mood lifted. So, if you’re feeling a little down because of the lack of daylight, grab some Vitamin D supplements or eat a few more fortified foods. If you’re brave enough, you could also try standing by a window for some glorious, albeit brief, sunshine.
Winter air on the high desert plains of Northwestern Nevada sucks the moisture right out of your skin. Stay hydrated, even when you don’t feel like it. Your favorite winter beverage might be hot chocolate or spiked cider but balance that out with some good ol’ H2O. Your skin and internal organs will thank you, and you might even avoid the dreaded ‘dried-up raisin’ look.
Here’s the tricky part: moving during winter. It’s tough when the thought of stepping outside makes you want to curl up like a cat on a window sill. You don’t need to run a marathon in the snow to stay fit. Indoor workouts, yoga, or even dancing like nobody’s watching can help you beat the winter blues. If you can somehow make it outside, snowball fights, sledding, or even a brisk walk in the fresh air will make you feel like a new person. If nothing else, at least you’ll get some fresh air before retreating to your couch, cocooned in a blanket.
Now that we’ve all agreed winter is a skin-sucking villain, let’s fight back! This is the season to slather on that luxurious lotion or balm and pretend you’re being pampered in a spa. I’m talking about full-on head-to-toe moisturizing, including your face, elbows, and even your feet (they deserve some love too). If your skin becomes flakey try a moisturizing scrub to bring it back to life.
Winter is the perfect time to focus on sleep habits. The long nights are the perfect time to catch up on the Zzzs you’ve been neglecting. Aim for at least 7-8 hours of restful sleep during the the next atmospheric river rolls. Bonus points if you can master the art of the cozy sleep environment: blackout curtains, warm blankets, and possibly an extra pillow to snuggle.
Lastly, winter wellness isn’t all about physical health – mental health matters, too. Try to stay lighthearted about the season’s challenges. But remember to laugh at the little things. A good laugh releases endorphins, and we could all use a little more of those during the winter months. Embrace the season with a smile… or at least a giggle when you fall down trying to make snow angels.
So, there you have it – maintaining winter wellness will help you endure endless months of snow and darkness. By staying hydrated, moving your body, embracing self-care, and even laughing through the snowstorms, you’ll greet spring in one piece. Winter is long, but it doesn’t have to be miserable. Grab your fuzzy socks, take care of yourself, and enjoy the season for what it is – a time to cozy up, recharge, and remain healthy!
