Stay Aligned All Winter: How to Keep Your Body and Your Mood Up as the Days Get Shorter
As we transition into late fall and early winter, the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, I often hear from practice members that they start to feel a little “off”. Many people notice more stiffness, fatigue, mood changes, and more as the sunlight becomes scarce and snow looms. Winter mood starts to set in.
I see this every single year: our bodies and minds are deeply connected to the rhythms of nature. However, with the right tools, you can move through winter feeling strong, balanced, aligned and enjoy the winter season for all it has to offer.
Here are some things that can help keep both your body and mood in alignment this season:
1 Prioritize posture and movement
When the weather cools, our bodies often crave rest and cozy comfort, and that’s okay! The key is finding balance between relaxation and movement. Gentle, consistent activity helps keep muscles flexible, joints mobile, and energy flowing, all of which support your posture, mood, and overall wellbeing through the season.
Try this:
- Set a movement reminder every hour to get up and stretch or go for a small walk. Even 2-3 minutes can reduce stiffness and improve circulation.
- Incorporate “posture breaks” – gently roll your shoulders back, open your chest, and take 3 deep breaths.
- Bundle up and get outside daily. A brisk 10 minute walk in the natural light and fresh crisp air gets your joints moving and can lift your energy levels.
2. Nourish your body with warming, mood boosting foods.
What you eat has a big impact on how you feel, both physically and emotionally. While comfort foods are part of winter’s charm, focusing on nutrient rich, warming meals can help to support your nervous system, immune function, and energy levels.
Try this:
- Start your day with warmth: swap cold breakfasts for oatmeal topped with fruit, nut butter, or seeds to add a variety of micronutrients and vitamins to your day and to keep you full and balanced.
- Add colour to your plate: aim for a variety of seasonal produce – think roasted carrots, squash, and dark leafy greens.
- Sip intentionally – replace that extra coffee with herbal teas or warm lemon water to support hydration.
- Plan ahead: batch cook hearty soups, stews, or grain bowls on weekends so nutritious options are ready when life gets busy – especially if you have little ones that like to keep you busy with dance/hockey/other sport practices every night of the week.
3. Keep your nervous system regulated
Your spine is more than just structure for your body, it’s the highway for your nervous system. When your spine is aligned and moving well, communication between your brain and body is more efficient, helping you adapt to stress, recover faster, and maintain overall health.
Try this:
- Regular chiropractic care can help you manage stress more effectively, relieve tension, and support your body with its regular functions and movements.
- Mindful movement: yoga, Pilates or gentle stretching can help to connect the body and breath, reducing stress and boosting endorphins.
- Gratitude practice: a few moments of reflection each day can help to calm the mind and shift your focus toward positivity and resilience.
Winter doesn’t have to mean slowing down or feeling weighed down. With a mindful approach to movement, nourishment, and alignment, you can create a season of strength, warmth, and wellness.
Small consistent choices from a short daily walk, to a nutrient rich meal, or a regular adjustment can all help to keep your body and mind aligned and ready for all that winter has to offer.
