The first snowfall of the year is here in the Chicagoland area! While it may seem early for winter, it is never too early to start practicing healthy habits in preparation for the change of seasons. With the days getting shorter, and the temperatures dropping, you may begin to experience a change in mood and energy.
We’re here to share some of our favorite health hacks on how to combat some of these changes! Keep reading for some of our favorite holistic tips.
Switch up your Smoothie
If you’re big on smoothies, it is always a great idea to switch up your go to as the seasons change. Adding seasonal ingredients and spices bring warmth to your cup with the added nutritional boost of anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and anti-fungal benefits. Try this Warming Winter Pear & Spice Smoothie this season.
Combat Winer Blues with Acupuncture
Acupuncture is one of our favorite tools to combat the winter blues. Seasonal Depression’s Triggers Seasonal depression can take many forms, but according to Health Guidance for Better Health, there are four main triggers that fall weather has on the depressive state—lack of sunlight, temperature, sleep and rain. Most of us know about Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, where sufferers’ moods are tied directly to the changing of the seasons and exhibit depressive symptoms. Health Guidance says that lack of sunlight could be a major cause, as “light triggers many chemical reactions in our brains that make us more alert and happy.” Sunlight also helps our bodies produce serotonin, a hormone that makes us, for lack of a better word, happy. Studies show that Acupuncture is as effective as antidepressants in treating depression and can also help alleviate side effects from antidepressant medications.
Warm up with Lemon Water
Dr. Lexi Mikrut, DC, our Functional Medicine Provider recommends starting the day with warm lemon water because it has many health benefits. “It is so simple to do yet I fell away from doing this during the warm months. Starting your day with warm lemon water supports your metabolism, digestion and immune system. Turning a potential negative (like snow in October) into something positive is so good for your mental health. This is my reminder to focus your energy on positive things, it’s good for your mental and physical health! Happy first snow fall, Chicago!”
Stay Active to Boost your Mood
Staying active helps to keep your body feeling its best and can also help keep your immune system in check! The Physical Medicine team at Aligned Modern Health can create a functional rehabilitation program tailored to your needs to improve musculoskeletal health and keep you active this season.
These are just a few of our favorite ways to ignite your healthy habits before winter arrives. To learn more about our services, or to schedule an appointment, click the button below.
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