The Health Benefits of a Snow Day
Here in the Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla and the Mat-Su Valley we are no stranger to snow, and sometimes that can make us lose sight of the simple pleasure of a snow day. Winters in Alaska can often feel long and depressing, so we need to find joy by changing our focus. What if instead of seeing it snowing outside and thinking “not again,” we instead adopted the gleeful attitude of a child on a snow day? This can not only improve our mood, but also our health. It turns out that snow is actually doing our mind and body a favor. How? Here are 4 ways Snow days are a blessing for our bodies.
Exercise
Trekking through the snow can burn some serious calories. If you’d like to get your heart rate up while having fun how about snowshoeing? Cross country skiing? Building a snowman? A snow hike? Sledding? Dodging snowballs in a snowball fight? We already know that being outside will improve your mood, but you will also have the added benefit of a healthier mind and body via fun ‘exercise’.
Take a “Me Day”
Snow doesn’t always have to mean work or exercise. It can also mean relaxation. How about turning off the alarm and sleeping in? Sleep is a powerful tool that is well documented. The right amount of sleep and we are less stressed, happier, have a better immune system, better cognitive function, healthy metabolism, and reduced Alzheimer’s risk. Another benefit of a me day? Take some time to relax in your cozy lounge clothes covered in cozy blankets and read a good book. Reading can decrease stress while activating your brain. Our bodies can’t always be go go go and a snow day will give you a much needed physical and mental break and enable us to take some time to ourselves.
Cook a healthy meal
Often when we are on the go, we will sacrifice our health and not provide our bodies with the best nourishment. Takeout, delivery, fast food, and snacks can easily take over our mealtimes and leave our bodies wanting. Take the time to slow down and actually cook yourself and your family a healthy, homemade dinner. Cooking at home leads to a healthier overall diet and better food choices. Another added benefit is family mealtime improves communication, decision-making skills, self-esteem, healthy habits and strong values in all members of the family.
More Fun = Less Stress
Stress is linked to many health issues. It can cause headaches, fatigue, anxiety, poor sleep quality, and depression. With the pandemic many have experienced an increased amount of anxiety and stress. What is one cure for stress? Fun!! Laughter is proven to lower inflammation, sooth tension and boost your immune system. Taking a snow day to relax and just have fun will be something that your body will thank you for.
Snow may seem less than thrilling at this point of the year, but if we just take the time to shift our perspective and view a “Snow Day” as a “Me Day” we will find that the simple joys in life are often the things that bring us the most health and happiness. How do you like to spend your snow days?
