The EastCoaster

By: Brianna McAleer

As we officially enter the winter season, keeping our bodies in motion and minds engaged is essential for maintaining our physical and mental health. Here are some practical ways to keep your mind and body active in the colder temperatures this winter.

How to stay physically active: 

Winter doesn’t have to mean giving up on fitness. There are plenty of ways to stay active indoors and outdoors, no matter how cold it gets outside. 

1. Skiing 

• Skiing is an excellent way to get your heart pumping and your adrenaline rushing. The combination of aerobic activity and strength training can improve heart health and increase your stamina. This fun-filled winter activity engages your legs, core, and even your arms. The constant need to balance and move on uneven terrain builds muscle, in your quads, hamstrings, glutes, calves, and core. Plan your next ski trip! 

2. Indoor workouts 

• Yoga and Pilates: The practices of Yoga and Pilates can be done in the comfort of your home. Not only do they help you maintain your flexibility and strength, but also help reduce stress, improving mental clarity. 
• Strength Training: If you have a gym membership or have dumbbells/resistance bands, you can work on building muscle strength and improving your metabolism.
• Bodyweight Exercises: Push-ups, squats, planks, and lunges are bodyweight exercises that do not require special equipment and can be done in your own home or spaces at your local gym. A simple routine implementation of these bodyweight exercises can help maintain muscle tone and endurance throughout the season.

3. Winter Hiking

• Bundle up for the colder weather and explore nearby trails or parks on a winter hike. Whether you are looking to walk along a shorter trail or a longer one, hiking in the colder weather awakens our senses while engaging our bodies in exercise. 

How to stay mentally active: 

Winter can be a great opportunity to dive into a new hobby or skill. With more indoor time, you can explore activities that both engage and challenge your mind. 

1. Reading

• Reading is a wonderful way to immerse your imagination in new worlds. Set a reading goal, join a book club, or explore genres you haven’t yet tried! 

2. Journaling or Writing: 

• Spend a few minutes each day reflecting on your thoughts by writing in a journal. To tap into your creative side, you can also try writing short stories or poetry. Writing is a great way to express your emotions and immerse yourself in a clearer mental state.

3. Games and puzzles: 

• Playing chess, card games, or other strategy-based activities can help improve your problem-solving skills, mental focus, and memory recall. Puzzles also engage your mind. Solving puzzles often requires strategic thinking and creative problem-solving, helping to improve critical thinking abilities.

Make use of the colder weather and dive into these activities. You never know if you might just find a new hobby!