Winter Health Survival Guide

It's fall! And that means just one thing . . .winter is on its way. On December 21 winter will be officially here! Winter means different things to different people. For some, it's a cold and dreary season,while for others it brings a whole new winter wonderland of sports and activities. Some dread winter's holiday hassles and others welcome the season of comfort and joy. Winter means cold and flu season for most while a few treasure the time of inner peace and patience.

Most of us take the time to winterize our homes with storm windows or doors, weather stripping or water faucet insulation. We get our autos ready for winter's blast with snow tires, a tune-up and perhaps a road hazard kit.We even buy new winter clothes and put flannel linens on the bed, but many people forget to fortify their body for a season change. We've been programmed to hope that nothing happens . . .but when it does, we want a quick and easy remedy.

The new year is just a few months away. This is a season of renewal; of resolving to "do and be" better. We have an opportunity to accomplish, improve or master whatever we choose. Why not take this time to make optimum wellness a priority? I've found the best way to make the most of winter is to consider the following:

• Get back to basics -- We should take a hint from Mother Nature. The earth's energies flow into the roots for a season of quiet repose and regeneration. Sitting by the fire with a warm beverage or bowl of soup is a great way to "be in the season."
• Embrace winter's beauty -- Winter has a beauty all its own. . .kind of a "bare- bones" beauty that is quite a contrast from the flashy foliage of summer and fall. Bundle up and go on a winter walk to take in the sights and sounds of nature in her resting season.
• Practice winter wellness -- Exercise regularly to ensure a strong, healthy immune system. Include foods high in vitamin B6, Omega 3 fatty acids and complex carbohydrates that help elevate serotonin levels, helping reduce the 'winter blahs,' Seasonal Affective Disorder or depression. Adequate exercise and carefully selected foods help prevent excess winter weight gain.

It may be cold outside, and the North winds may blow . . .but when you have a strong body and a supercharged immune system, you will weather the storm! Plan to be well throughout the winter and before you know it, that 'silver-whitewinter' will be melting into spring! Connie Pshigoda is available to speak to women's groups on a variety of wellness topics.

Above article appeared in GolfViews Magazine, Winter 2005/2006.
Copyright © 2006. Wellness for All Seasons. All rights reserved.
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