You can stay fit, keep warm and support your mood all year long!

Just 20 minutes of physical activity a week boosts your mood, according to a 2009 British Journal of Sports Medicine study. Further studies have demonstrated that, 30 minutes of physical exercise 3-5x/week is more effective than anti-depressants.

Don’t let the winter blue and holiday foods get in your way of your hard work and momentum: Here are 7 tips to keep you safe and comfortable!

Dress Dry – Remember, cotton kills! Wear cloths that repel moisture not absorb it. Both sweat and rain need to stay off of your skin to avoid getting chilled.

Breath well – The cold air causes your airway to narrow which can be very difficult for anyone and worse for people with asthma. Try breathing through your nose to moisten and warm the air and/or breath through a scarf or bandana.

Sip don’t slug – Your body can only absorb a few ounces at a time, drink small amounts frequently to stay hydrated. You can get just as dehydrated in the cold as in the heat.

Warm up Warm down – Muscles are at a higher risk for injury when it is cold out so stretch and warm them before you start. Further, going from strenuous exercise to doing nothing is difficult for your heart – cooling down slowly is far less stressful and allows for elimination of exercise by products like lactic acid. You will feel less sore and strained tomorrow.

Protect your skin – Dry, cold air and winter sun equals dehydration and sunburn. Drink water regularly, moisturize after showers, eat high quality fats, and consider paraben free sunscreen to keep your skin soft and smooth.

Protect your extremities – tight cloths increase circulation and shoe covers trap heat.

Wear Bright cloths – It’s dark out there, so be seen!

Remember, it is never too late to Rest Naturally!