Winter turns the world into a playground—where kids (and the young at heart) revel in the magic of snowflakes, snowball fights, and the joy of building snowmen. Even a pesky winter storm can go from dreaded news to the start of cherished memories in an instant.
But let’s be honest—there comes a point when winter’s charm fades. The icy chill and endless gray days start to weigh on us. Cabin fever creeps in, and we catch ourselves daydreaming about escaping to sun-soaked beaches.
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If you feel like winter has overstayed its welcome, you’re not alone. Here are six tips to help you find light and warmth, even in the coldest months.
1. Make The Most of Your Indoor Space
Make the space where you’ll be the most, the coziest it can be. Pull out the comfy blankets, flannel sheets, and warm socks.
Put out magazines or books and add candles (please use candles with caution) around your home to create a warm atmosphere. The darkness winter brings can be brightened up in a flash, while your house gets a nice appealing scent, too.
2. Stay Social
Mental health can be difficult to manage during the winter months if you spend them alone. If you think the season will be bad for your well-being, contact your healthcare provider to discuss your needs as soon as possible.
Be sure to connect with others throughout the season, whether in person or through social media and video chats. If your contacts aren’t as tech-savvy, keep some high-quality paper, fun writing utensils handy, and plenty of stamps to stay in contact via mail this winter. Everyone appreciates getting something fun in the mail!
3. Keep Your Skin Soft
Cold, dry air can damage skin and lips. Stock up on good moisturizing products and keep them handy.
Use high-quality skin care products for your hands, legs, arms, and heels. Make sure that what you use isn’t too old or outdated, as it may not be as effective as you’d like. Be cautious of overly scented creams or lotions, as those can irritate the skin.
Keep plenty of lip balm on hand. Consider having a spare balm in your car, next to your favorite chair, and by the bed to stay moisturized.
Cracked skin that doesn’t heal properly can cause infections. Skin breakdown and wounds can be painful, forcing you out of your nice, warm house to find expensive treatments in a cold, icy city.
4. Stay Hydrated
Having plenty of fluids will help your winter skin and your overall well-being. Maintaining good hydration can ward off colds, the flu, and urinary tract infections (UTIs) and help your digestive system work better.
Plain old tap water can get boring. Mix it up with fun additions like frozen cranberries and low-calorie mix-ins, or boil up your favorite tea to keep warm. Hot chocolate on a cold day can also be super fun for the kiddos!
5. Try Some Winter Exercises
Winter offers a variety of activities for all skill levels and interests. Snowshoeing is an excellent workout, but you might feel it for a bit afterward.
Skating, cross-country skiing, and sledding are also great ways to pass the time and get outside in nature—don’t forget to make snow angels while you’re out there! If those activities aren’t your cup of tea, bundle up, put on supportive boots (adding ice cleats can help), and walk outside. Even walking around the block or short distances can be helpful to get fresh air and a little movement.
6. Stay Active Indoors
If you need to get moving but the weather keeps you indoors, search the Internet for virtual classes. There are also many free options on YouTube that can match your interests and skill level. If you have questions about your ability to be active, check with your doctor before you start.
Spring cleaning is a popular term, but once it’s nicer outside, that’s where most of us want to be. Get a leg up on your spring cleaning by doing it in the winter when the conditions outside are unfavorable. Cleaning can be exercise, too!
Ready to hit the easy button this winter? Get a sneak peek into the good life with a short-term stay at Edgewood! Stay for the season and spend your days socializing, eating delicious meals, and staying active without fully committing to a permanent move. We’ve even got healthcare options on-site to help you feel your best. Email us at info@edgewoodhealthcare.com to learn more.
