HOW TO AVOID A WINTER SLUMP Are you feeling a little down this winter? If so, you’re certainly not alone. The winter season is a tough time for many people. The lack of sunlight, cold weather, and shorter days can lead to the winter blues, which causes people to feel tired, lethargic, and less motivated. The winter blues can be triggered by seasonal affective disorder, which causes some people to experience depression during the winter months. The most common symptoms include feeling down or sad, having trouble concentrating, sleeping too much, and gaining weight. Thankfully, there are many ways to reverse your winter slump and beat the winter blues, including: 1. Exercise more: Exercise is one of the best ways to improve your mood. It releases endorphins, which are hormones that create a sense of happiness and euphoria. Exercise also releases serotonin, a neurotransmitter that can help with feelings of anxiety, stress, and depression. If you’re not one to brave the cold weather, know that there are plenty of indoor exercises that can give you a great workout, such as yoga or pilates. 2. Socialize more: Spending time with friends and family lifts your mood and improves your mental health and self-esteem. Feelings of depression thrive when someone
feels isolated, so it’s crucial to surround yourself with a healthy and loving support system. 3. Take care of yourself: Get enough sleep, drink lots of water, eat healthy food and take breaks from work when needed to refresh your mind. Remember that your health is your greatest asset and should be your number one priority at all times. 4. Get a hobby: Now that it’s getting colder, you’re likely spending a lot more time inside. Now is the perfect time to pick up a hobby! You could learn to play an instrument, practice your drawing or painting skills, learn to sew or embroider, or start an indoor herb garden.
HOW TO SURVIVE ARTHRITIS & COLD WEATHER
1. Keep warm. If the winter chill bothers your joints, the best antidote is to bundle up! Layer up with hats, gloves, and scarves. You could also take a warm bath to help your stiff joints. 2. Exercise. When you’re in pain, exercise might be the last thing on your mind. But did you know that getting active is the single most effective way to alleviate arthritis pain and keep your joints happy? Exercising can include anything from taking a yoga class to walking around your neighborhood. 3. Practice healthy eating habits. Did you know that your diet can contribute to your levels of inflammation and, consequently, how much pain you’re in? Opting for anti- inflammatory foods can significantly improve arthritis symptoms. If you believe you need some extra help when it comes to pain relief this season, don’t hesitate to contact us today!
Do you notice that your arthritis becomes more painful in the winter? Does it become harder to go about your daily activities? Arthritis can hinder many qualities of life — from work to hobbies to overall mobility. Some people are so affected by arthritis that they cannot work and have to go on disability. If you are suffering from the chronic pain of arthritis, or you think you might be, call The Physiotherapy Center LTD. to schedule a consultation with one of our physiotherapists. Physiotherapy is a safe, healthy, and effective way to treat arthritic pain. Although cold weather does not cause arthritis, it can aggravate existing aches and pains. According to the Arthritis Foundation, cold temperatures can increase pain sensitivity, slow blood circulation, and cause muscle spasms. Luckily, there are some things you can do to help alleviate your arthritis symptoms in the winter, including:
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