Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow

He may have a fur coat, you do not!

The cold is here, and muscles don't like the cold. Have you ever noticed that you are more stiff and sore in the winter in comparison to the summer? Well in summer you might get sore from increased summer activity (way to go!) but in the winter although we may get sore from new and different winter activities, there is another element that is helping to increase those aches and pains...the cold! So here are a few tips to help you combat Jack Frost:

First the root problem

We react to the cold by tightening up, bringing those shoulder to our ears and trying to get smaller to trap body heat. Next we start to shiver to produce heat to keep us warm. This is really hard on our muscles, it can lead to spasm and longer term pain. No one can stay relaxed when cold! Next time you find yourself in that situation, go ahead and try it. Try to keep your muscles relaxed and not shiver, almost as easy as passing on your favorite dessert at a party...not!

Wear a scarf!

Protect your most vulnerable area, the neck. So many people come to me complaining of sore neck and shoulders, particularly in the winter! Even when it's a cool windy day, its's a good idea to wear even a light scarf, just a bit of a barrier between you and that cool breeze will help. So add a funky, sophisticated, bold, or gramma's handmade knitted scarf to your wardrobe and you won't just be stylish, you'll be feeling better for it too!

Dress to the weather, layer up!

I know this sounds "naggy mom" talk but seriously, dress to the weather, actually overdress. It's easy to take a layer off but where are you going to get more if your out and about and the day, or activity, turns, and you find yourself out in the cold? Much easier to relax the scarf or open the jacket collar than to find yourself in that uncomfortable, sometime downright painful, shiver mode!

Prepare ahead of time

We all know it takes more time in the winter to get ready and out the door, so many more layers! And if you're like me, you end up running around last minute trying to find the toque, gloves and scarf and then end up having to leave without them instead of risk of being late. Solution? Easy, but not easy, is routine and forethought! Have a place or a basket and that's where you leave these extra winter essentials so your not in a panic and nicely equipped to handle Mr. Frost.

Until next time, bundle up, stay warm and seriously...wear a scarf! And someone get that guy a hot cup of tea!