By Lauren J
We gathered together to share tips on how to care for ourselves through the winter. Here are some of the helpful things we learned from Ali and from each other!
Preparation & Cold Training
Allow yourself time to get used to the changing temps. After a long summer, 40 degrees may feel really cold, but our perceptions of the cold will change. Try things like waiting longer to turn up your heat or not turning it as high as you may like to help yourself get acclimated to colder temps. As you are getting used to being out in colder temps, remember to protect your skin from the wind and protect your extremities, since they will receive less blood flow as your body works to keep your core warm.
Food & Hydration
Hydration is super-important in the winter, even though you may not feel like drinking as much as you do when it is hot outside. Stay fueled with seasonal foods when you can and be sure that you are getting enough Vitamin D, whether it be from supplements or the sun. See Ali’s Chicken Ginger Soup recipe below!
Body Conditioning
Pay attention to your body to help conserve energy while biking. Notice if you are tense (shoulders, neck, grip) and try to stay loose and maintain a comfortable natural posture.
Get plenty of sleep and allow yourself time to relax and repair from being out in the winter.
Magnesium and minerals are helpful in restoration, which you can get through dietary supplements or absorb through an epsom and dead sea salt soak.
Use creams and balms to protect and heal your skin. Ali’s skin care salve recipe is below which can be tweaked to your liking. (Sub Olive Oil for Almond, if you have a nut allergy.) You can also add essential oils like Mint, Rosemary, or Eucalyptus.
Home Environment
Pay attention to the humidity level in your home. Aromatherapy! Boiling dried citrus on the stovetop can help brighten up your home and keep a comfortable level of humidity.
Restoration
Stretching can help you to release tension and restore your warmth throughout the winter! Ali led us in some great stretches especially ones that focus on loosening tense arms, shoulders, and neck. Find a stretching routine that works for you and remember to take it slow.
Session Handouts
Self care tips (pdf)
Stretching tips (pdf)