Tips for Staying Active in the Winter

Winter often invites slower mornings, cozy evenings, and extra rest—and that’s not a bad thing. But colder weather, shorter days, and disrupted routines can make movement feel harder to prioritize.

Staying active during the winter doesn’t mean pushing through exhaustion or forcing yourself into intense workouts. It means finding simple, supportive ways to keep your body moving—in ways that feel good for your nervous system, joints, and energy levels.

1. Shift Your Mindset: Movement Over “Exercise”

If winter workouts feel overwhelming, start by redefining what counts as movement. Gentle, consistent movement supports circulation, joint mobility, mood, and nervous system regulation—even when it’s not high intensity.

Movement can look like:

• Stretching while your coffee brews

• A short walk during daylight hours

• Gentle yoga or mobility work at home

• Taking the stairs instead of the elevator

Small moments add up.

2. Embrace Shorter, More Frequent Movement

Winter is not always the season for long workouts—and that’s okay. Try breaking movement into shorter chunks throughout the day.

Even 5–10 minutes of movement can:

• Reduce stiffness and aches

• Improve circulation

• Support energy and focus

• Help regulate your nervous system

Set a timer to stand, stretch, or walk every couple of hours, especially if you’re sitting for long periods.

3. Keep Your Body Warm to Stay Comfortable

Cold muscles are more likely to feel stiff or achy. Before moving, take a few minutes to warm up your body.

Helpful tips:

• Wear layers and warm socks

• Start with slow, gentle movements

• Focus on breath to help relax tension

• Try movement indoors before heading outside

A warm body moves more comfortably and safely.

4. Find Indoor Movement You Enjoy

When outdoor walks feel less appealing, having indoor options makes staying active more accessible.

Some winter-friendly ideas include:

• Hot yoga

• Pilates classes

• Bodyweight or resistance band exercises at home

• Mobility or stretching routines at home

• Dancing to your favorite playlist

• Walking on a walking pad or treadmill

5. Prioritize Posture and Mobility

Winter often means more time sitting—whether working, driving, or relaxing indoors. Adding mobility work can help counteract stiffness, especially in the neck, shoulders, hips, and low back.

Focus on:

• Gentle spinal movement

• Hip openers and pelvic mobility

• Neck and shoulder stretches

• Breath-led movement

These areas are especially important during pregnancy and postpartum as your body continues to adapt and recover.

6. Use Movement to Support Your Nervous System

Movement isn’t just about muscles—it’s a powerful tool for regulating your nervous system. Gentle, intentional movement paired with breath can help shift your body out of stress mode and into rest and repair.

Slow, mindful practices such as walking, yoga, or stretching can:

• Reduce stress hormones

• Improve sleep

• Support emotional regulation

• Increase body awareness

Listen to your body’s cues and allow movement to feel calming rather than demanding.

7. Be Kind to Yourself This Season

Winter is a natural time to slow down. Energy levels may change, and that doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong.

Consistency doesn’t mean perfection. It means choosing movement that feels supportive on most days—and allowing rest when your body needs it.

A Gentle Reminder

Movement during the winter doesn’t need to look the same as it does in warmer months. When you honor your body’s needs, movement becomes something that supports you—not another thing on your to-do list.

If you’re unsure what types of movement are best for your body—especially during pregnancy or postpartum—chiropractic care, gentle mobility work, and nervous system support can help guide you.

Take care,

Dr. Gina

Simple Ways to Add Movement to Your Daily Life

Simple habits that make a big difference — especially during pregnancy and postpartum.

When most people think of “exercise,” they picture long workouts, gym memberships, or squeezing yet another thing into an already full schedule. But the truth is, movement doesn’t have to be complicated. Small, consistent actions throughout the day can support better posture, reduce discomfort, and help you feel more energized — especially during pregnancy and postpartum, when your body needs support more than ever.

Here are some simple ways to weave more movement into your day, no matter how busy life feels:

1. Turn Everyday Tasks Into Mini Workouts

Little changes add up fast. Try:

• Standing on one leg while brushing your teeth to activate stabilizing muscles

• Doing 10 calf raises while waiting for water to boil

• Performing gentle hip circles at the kitchen counter (great for pelvic mobility!)

• Squatting down to pick things up instead of bending from the waist

These tiny moments keep joints moving and help counteract stiffness.

2. Set a “Movement Reminder” Every Hour

Our bodies aren’t meant to stay in one position for long stretches. Set a timer or use a movement reminder app to stand, stretch, or walk for 1–2 minutes every hour.

Some ideas:

• Shoulder rolls

• Gentle neck stretches

• A quick walk across the room

• Pelvic tilts or cat-cow against a wall

Even small resets help your spine stay happy.

3. Add Movement to Your Commute (Or Daily Errands)

If you drive:

• Park a little farther away

• Take the long route walking in

• Do a few gentle stretches before getting in or out of the car

If you work from home:

• Take a 5–10 minute “commute walk” before or after your day to mimic normal routine movement.

4. Make Social Time Active Time

Movement doesn’t have to be solo.

Try swapping out a coffee date for:

• A walk and talk

• A yoga or pilates class

• A stroll with the stroller or baby carrier

This builds community and keeps your body moving.

5. Use Transitions as Movement Opportunities

Think of the in-between moments:

• Waiting for your toddler to put their shoes on

• Letting the dog out

• Warming up your lunch

• Waiting on hold

These are the perfect times to stretch your hip flexors, practice diaphragmatic breathing, or do a few bodyweight movements.

6. Keep Quick Props Nearby

Having tools you like makes movement easier to reach for:

• A foam roller by the couch

• A yoga mat unrolled in a corner

• Resistance bands in a drawer

• A birthing ball as an extra seat

When it’s right there, you’re more likely to use it.

7. Listen to Your Body’s Signals

The best movement is the one your body is asking for. Feeling stiff? Try gentle stretching. Low energy? Take a slow walk. Feeling strong today? Add a few reps of bodyweight exercises.

Movement doesn’t have to look perfect — it just has to be consistent.

Take care,

Dr. Gina

Keep It Moving: Why Exercise is Essential for Joint Health

When it comes to maintaining a healthy body, most people think about their heart, muscles, or weight—but what about your joints? Your joints are the unsung heroes of everyday movement. Whether you're walking, lifting your kids, or simply getting up from a chair, your joints are constantly at work.

So how do you keep them healthy, mobile, and pain-free as you age? One powerful answer: exercise.

As a chiropractor, I see firsthand how movement (or the lack of it) affects joint health. The good news? You have more control than you think.

Why Joint Health Matters

Joints are the connections between your bones that allow movement and flexibility. They're supported by cartilage, ligaments, and muscles—structures that all rely on movement to stay strong and nourished. Without regular use and care, joints can become stiff, painful, and prone to injury.

Over time, inactivity can contribute to:

· Stiffness and limited range of motion

· Muscle imbalances that strain joints

· Increased risk of arthritis or degenerative joint changes

· Chronic pain and poor posture

How Exercise Supports Joint Health

1. Lubricates the joints Movement stimulates the production of synovial fluid—a natural lubricant that keeps your joints gliding smoothly. Without it, joints can become dry and stiff.

2. Strengthens the muscles around your joints Strong, supportive muscles reduce the stress placed directly on the joint, preventing unnecessary wear and tear.

3. Improves flexibility and range of motion Gentle stretching and mobility work help prevent the loss of movement that can come with aging or injury.

4. Maintains a healthy weight Excess body weight adds pressure to joints—especially the knees, hips, and spine. Exercise helps manage weight, reducing that stress.

5. Reduces inflammation Regular moderate exercise has an anti-inflammatory effect, helping reduce joint pain and stiffness—especially in people with arthritis.

Best Exercises for Joint Health

Good news! There is no “best” exercise for joint health. The best exercise for you is something you actually enjoy doing! Here are some ideas:

· Walking

· Swimming or water aerobics

· Cycling

· Yoga or Pilates

· Strength training

Final Thoughts

Movement is medicine. Staying active is one of the best ways to protect your joints for the long run—whether you're managing stiffness, preventing injury, or just looking to age gracefully.

The key is to move consistently, listen to your body, and find activities you enjoy doing. And if pain or limitation is holding you back, we’re here to help you find relief and get moving again.

Feel free to reach out with any questions!

Take care,

Dr. Gina