Weathering your way to winter wellness

Winter is officially here and not only is it challenging enough with the physical effects of plummeting temperatures and shorter days, it’s also the time of year where the ‘winter blues’ can start to take hold on our mental health.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression caused by the change in seasons. It can result in reduced energy, a sense of ongoing tiredness, increased anxiety and a struggle to do things you would normally perform with ease.

The cause of these winter blues is generally a lack of sunlight which can cause a deficiency of Vitamin D, a crucial element to living a healthy lifestyle.

In serious instances of SAD, we recommend you seek the help of a Psychologist or other qualified medical practitioner. There are however, some ways in which you can help yourself to pass through winter with flying colours.

It’s at this time of year that the common cold and flu are also out in force. Rest can often cure all, but in some cases the impact is more severe. Learn more here about colds and flu.

The risk of sporting injuries is also enhanced during the wet season, with an increased likelihood of slips, trips and falls.

Here are our top tips for combating the winter blues, illness and injury:

1. Wash your hands: Wash regularly throughout the day, especially after using the toilet, before meals or after using someone else’s devices.
2. Get vaccinated: whilst it’s your personal choice, the flu vaccine can prevent you from contracting influenza and spreading it to others. We recommend consulting your medical practitioner to ensure the vaccine is right for you. For more information, visit fightflu.co.nz
3. Get active: Regular exercise can help to elevate your mood, lower the risk of disease and illness, and help to manage your waist line. If it’s too cold outside, try hitting the gym or going to an indoor pool. Having an exercise partner can be a great source of motivation too. And always remember to warm up and stretch before exercising.
4. Eat well: eating healthier food during winter can help maintain your immunity and help you to recover if you get ill. Eat as much fruit and vegetables as possible and maintain a balanced diet. If you’re unsure what you should be eating, visit a nutritionist for a meal plan.
5. Stay hydrated: drinking the recommended eight glasses of water can help your immune system and also help to maintain your weight.
6. Get a massage: a massage can help to lift your mood, reduce stress, increase circulation and help to deal with general aches. The Urban Physio offers sports and trigger point release massages to help you maintain your winter wellness.
7. See a Physio: getting those niggles and injuries seen to quickly will get you back to what you love doing sooner and can also help to prevent longer term injury.

Contact us today to see how we can help you or BOOK ONLINE to get yourself sorted as soon as possible.