(2/2023) Exercise in the winter is just as important as in the warmer months. In fact, it is probably more important. I realize sometimes the weather is too bad to go for a walk outside. Rain, snow, sleet and ice are good reasons to stay inside but that doesn't give you permission to sit on the couch and look out the window. On those days you need to have an alternate plan to at least get a little exercise and movement into your day. When the weather is decent, event if it is cold, a brisk walk will do wonders for your mood as well as your body. A walk in the cold air not only makes you move a little faster, it lifts your spirits and increases your metabolism to burn more calories. Always check with your doctor if you have a condition that the cold weather may exacerbate. Also check with your physician if you are not sure what kind of exercise may be too much if you are having any symptoms you are not familiar with.

While being with others is helpful and fun, sometimes due to the weather or other things you cannot get outside, but it is still very important to keep moving. Exercise not only keeps your body in good shape, it also keeps your mind healthy. Having a sedentary lifestyle ages the body and the mind. Exercise has been proven to help lower cholesterol, blood pressure, weight and improve joint pain and many other ailments that come with age. Seclusion and loneliness contributes to depression and other mental health conditions as well as physical decline in our health.

It is easy to put off the things we don't like and let's face it, exercise is not on the top of most people's list. Believe it or not, if you put it on the list and commit to doing a little each day I think you will see how it makes you feel better. Sticking to a good habit takes about six weeks to instill in our routine. Once you add a little exercise each day, I hope you will keep adding a few more minutes every week and you will see the importance and improvement it makes in how you feel. Take things day by day and in a short while you will feel better and look forward to your exercise routine. It is also very important to include your children and other family members. This will provide you with quality time and keep you closer to your family and friends. Healthy relations also keep our physical, mental and emotional health in good condition.

Start slow and work up to the exercise that challenges you. The most important thing is to start. The rest will fall into place as you see the improvement in all areas of your life. Keep trying activities until you find one that you enjoy and you know you will stick with. Don't give up after one or two activities. Something will challenge you and you will have fun along with improving your health.

Remember to Keep Moving, You'll Be Glad You Did!!