As the winter season unfolds in Connecticut, staying healthy and comfortable becomes a priority for everyone. The cold weather brings unique challenges, from maintaining a warm living environment and avoiding slips and falls to ensuring good health.
Here are some great tips to keep you keeping you healthy and happy over the winter months:
Keep Your Home Warm and Cozy
A warm home is essential during the cold Connecticut winters. If you use heating oil or propane, ensure your heating system is serviced and working efficiently. Use programmable thermostats to maintain a consistent, comfortable temperature without overheating. Remember, a well-insulated home retains heat better and saves on heating costs.
Humidity Matters
Low humidity levels are common in winter and can cause dry skin, irritated sinuses, and an increased risk of respiratory infections. Use a humidifier to maintain a healthy indoor humidity level, ideally between 30-50%. This not only improves air quality but also enhances comfort. Be sure to clean your humidifier regularly to prevent mold growth.
Stay Hydrated
We often forget to drink water in the winter due to reduced perspiration. However, staying hydrated is crucial for overall health. Drinking enough water helps maintain skin health, aiding digestion and ensuring proper bodily functions. Keep a water bottle handy and consume warm beverages like herbal teas to stay hydrated if icy cold water isn’t your thing. How much? About half your body weight in ounces each day!
Nutritious Diet for Immune Support
A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals boosts your immune system. Add seasonal fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats to your meals. Foods high in Vitamin C, Zinc, and Omega-3 fatty acids support immune health. Don’t forget that Vitamin D! As the days are shorter and we spend far less time outside, most of us don’t get enough Vitamin D naturally from the sun. Talk to your healthcare provider about changes in diet or the need for supplements as we go through the winter season.
Exercise Regularly
Maintaining an exercise routine can be challenging during the winter, especially for those who don’t like the cold, but it’s important for your physical and mental well-being. Head inside and enjoy some time at the gym, take a yoga or Pilates class, join an indoor walking group (it’s a thing!) or even tackle cleaning out that basement – all the movement counts. If you are a winter lover – enjoying a walk outside is just as good as skiing or skating when it comes to exercise, and if you wear good grippy boots, it will be a lot safer! Check out these fun winter activities to do in Connecticut.
Prioritize Sleep
Good sleep is essential for health, especially in winter when the body needs more rest to combat the cold. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Create a comfortable sleeping environment – a cool, dark room with comfortable bedding. Avoid screen time at least an hour before bed to ensure better sleep quality, and consider having a cool air humidifier in your room to combat the dry air from your heating system.
Mental Health is Key
Winter can often bring the blues, particularly in regions with limited sunlight. Maintain a routine, stay connected with friends and family, and engage in activities you enjoy. Light therapy, where you’re exposed to artificial light mimicking natural sunlight, can benefit those suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). We are pretty sure that’s where the “Winter Blues” saying came from!
Dress Appropriately
Layers, layers and layers! New England weather is unpredictable and we all know it can go from 60 to 20 degrees in a couple of hours. If you are going to be outside for any period of time make sure you are prepared with a layers of clothing so you can adjust as the weather does. Wool works better than cotton because it retains heat even when wet. Tip: Keep a change of clothes in your car – including hat, socks, gloves/mittens. You never know when you’ll need them. Don’t forget sunglasses – your eyes will thank you when you protect them from snow sun glare.
Safety First
Winter weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared for any situation. Keep a winter emergency kit in your home and car. This should include flashlights, batteries, blankets, sustainable snacks (think protein bars, dried fruit, and water), and a first-aid kit. If you have a generator, make sure it’s ready to go if the power goes out due to a winter storm. Be aware of weather forecasts and plan your activities accordingly.
Slips and Falls – they happen!
It’s winter in Connecticut and that means icy steps, driveways, parking lots and roads. Follow the lead of winter hikers and mountain climbers and add an extra layer of “grip” to your boots and shoes with crampons or ice spikes. They come in various options, and everyone should have a pair in their car and in their mudroom so you are ready to go. A small investment with a huge return! And don’t forget to walk like a penguin.
Winter is magical in Connecticut – New England does not disappoint when it comes to snow activities and the beauty of the landscape. The secret to enjoying it, is staying safe and healthy throughout the season. We hope the above tips are helpful!
