moose in winterKeep Healthy & Strong Through Life’s Storms

 

Typically, I enjoy our snowy New England winters. This year, that gentle blanket of white that usually invites us to slow down and take it easy has taken an intense turn. We have been bombarded with thick mounds of dense frozen snow that is causing everyone to work harder, longer, and makes us want to hunker down for safety. Everywhere we turn, friends tell stories about spin-outs on the ice, ice dams leaking inside the house, and huge piles of snow that demand lifting heavy shovels of snow overhead. What a challenging winter… glad it is almost over.

What are we doing about all this Winter STRESS? People are hurting their backs, losing time at work, worried about spending more on heat in this bitter chill, and are afraid of damage from the ice dams. Schools have been canceled, fun activities postponed, and property severely damaged. We are forced to stay inside to keep warm in the frigid temperatures and look out at Mother Nature’s power…the fascinating icicles, the dangerous road conditions, and the thick spans of dense snow that is way too deep for children to play in. STRESS…STRESS…STRESS.

Too much stress causes illness, accidents, and drains our energy. As caretakers of our homes, children and others, we must stay healthy and strong. We must find the time to care for ourselves. Some friends enjoy braving the cold to go skiing or snow-shoeing, and other hardy New Englander’s truly enjoy this weather. However, most of us are only outside long enough to move the snow and ice from walk, drive and roof. We seem to be pretty much stuck inside. We need some escape from the snowy madness. We need to care for ourselves through all of the storms that life sends out way.

Here are some simple things you can do to care for yourself, that hardworking caretaker in you:

  1. Care for your Body:
    1. Eat healthy, nutritious food.
    2. Stretch out like a cat.
    3. Soak in a hot bath.
  2. Care for your Mind:
    1. Read a good book.
    2. Play games with friends.
    3. Make plans for the summer.
  3. Care for your Spirit:
    1. Meditate or do self-hypnosis daily.
    2. Reach out to a lonely friend.
    3. Sing some fun songs.
  4. Care from Professionals:
    1. See your chiropractor.
    2. Consult your acupuncturist.
    3. Have a massage or Reiki treatment.

When we take care of ourselves, we are better equipped to care for others. These simple everyday tips can be incorporated easily into your daily routine. Teach your children the importance of taking care of themselves so they stay calm, focused, and more upbeat. Even in the denseness of this heavy winter, you CAN find the joy within. When you share the joy, you shine brighter, and you light others with your light.

Let me know if you would like a referral to a caring, quality-minded, qualified professional. I can connect you with a caregiver who can help you take good care of your health.

Stay warm, safe, and take good care,

Lois Hermann

“I have to believe that caring for myself is not self-indulgent. Caring for myself is an act of survival.”  – Andre Lund