Human health and wellness are not just temporal, but also depend on the specific climate in a person’s locale. The definition of “wellness” is self-advancing, but the general assertion by physicians is that its limits are defined by physical, emotional, and psychological boundaries that can subtly shift with the changing seasons. Keeping up with wellness, especially from one climate to another can be a major challenge. However, with intention, wellness can be maintained regardless of seasonal or climate changes. Below we explore how to live well in every climate.
Change Your Activity Styles with the Seasons
The most important part of wellness across seasons is to acknowledge and adapt to the changing conditions. This means adjusting exercise styles, food, and even mentality to better align with the seasonal demands. Exercise in an outdoor setting is focused on cardiovascular and muscular endurance during warmer months, meanwhile the focus moves to core strength and shorter, intense workouts during colder months.
The same goes for food selection. Warmer months can mean heavy proteins and cooked options, while cooler months could see fruits and vegetables take more of a focus. Seasonal eating of locally grown ingredients provides physical, emotional, and psychological benefits.
Hydrate and Protect in Every Climate
Regardless of local climate, hydration is always essential. And be even more vigilant about sun protections in warmer climates. Hydrating regularly is easy with the availability of herbal tea, water, and flavored water options. The skin is less often brought up in discussions around seasonal wellness, but the physical effects of the changing seasons can be pronounced, so look for quality natural sunscreens when exposed to harsher UV levels.
Relax and Recharge Despite Weather Conditions
Certain climates can increase levels of anxiety, stress, and mental-minutia. The weather limits outdoor activity ability and can bring about the desire to hibernate. However, it is equally important to take time to just rest—it’s considered another type of activity—and recharge in a variety of climates. For those who might struggle to slow down, seek out mental or emotional recourses like yoga, meditation, and journaling. Participate in activities with friends and loved ones as well as take up creative hobbies, all of which provide powerful emotional, and psychological benefits.
Educate Yourself with Local Resources
To truly maintain wellness in every climate, it is essential to become familiar with local resources like farmers markets, fitness facilities, and wellness professionals. Knowing where to get seasonal produce and participate in a variety of exercise options when switching to a warmer climate optimizes food and activity choices. Additionally, meeting face-to-face with fitness and wellness professionals brings additional motivation and personalized support from a like minded community.
Conclusion
Wellness across climates requires continuous mindfulness and adaptation. However, prioritizing physical, emotional, and psychological needs reaps benefits in every environment. Take the time to become familiar with local produce, wellness professionals, and educational resources and make sure to appropriately adjust food, activity, and sun protection as climate changes. And no matter your climate, take time to relax and recharge to ensure balance. Your overall wellness can still be a priority regardless of the weather.