Is there a winter walk in your future?

​Post by Adeline Rowley, Chiropractic Assistant at McCann Family Chiropractic

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Does winter mean it’s time to head inside and put the Camelbak in the bottom of your closet? Break out your yoga mat in the living room?

​Many of us tend to hibernate inside when the chilly air starts to turn our 
noses pink. Refreshing summer or fall walks come to an end, and some of us may even take a “winter break” from exercising outdoors. 

It turns out that there are many health benefits to exercising in the cold outdoor air, such as increased fat loss, better sleep, improved motivation and mood, and a stronger immune system. Whether you prefer jogging, cycling, basketball, walking, hiking, or even snowshoeing, you might want to think again about choosing only indoor activities. 
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Let’s run through these benefits in more depth. Then, we’ll give a quick reminder about winter safety, and share a few favorite hikes in our area.  
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​Fat Loss

There are two kinds of fat that we store on our bodies — brown and white. Brown fat is the fat that we can burn off when we exercise. During winter your body can more efficiently convert white fat to brown fat. Exercising outdoors is FREE! 

Sleep

Did you know that when your body is trying to sleep, it drops its core temperature? In the summer, this can take up to two hours! That reduces the quality of rest you can give your body. Getting outdoors in the winter is one way to drop that core temperature, giving you a better night’s sleep. Sleeping in a room that is between 60 and 67 degrees can also help with this. However, most of us know that exercising in general helps us sleep better. 

Motivation & Mood

If minor seasonal mood changes are hitting you, getting outside is something you definitely want to try. 

Furthermore, getting up in the morning to go for a cool walk or jog is much more motivating and energizing than hitting snooze and laying in bed on your phone. For me, all I have to do is open the door to the freezing outdoors, and yikes, I wake up quite quickly! 

​Try it. Get up, get dressed, get outside for 20 - 30 minutes. Chances are, you will feel ready to start your day with a clear head.

Getting outdoors can also reduce stress immensely. Whatever is stressing you out, take a few minutes to step away from it. Our brains are created to need time outdoors, fresh air, and movement for our bodies. Time and time again, research has shown how much a bit of outdoor exercise can minimize stress, anxiety, and tension. 
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​Immune System

With winter comes colds and sniffles. But, also with winter comes the opportunity for a stronger immune system to fight those colds. The chilly air activates your immune system, preparing it to fight off whatever may come its way. Of course, it is no guarantee, but it is a factor, and your body will thank you. Exercising in the cold can also function as an inflammation reducer, working the same way as ice packs do. 

We made it! Are you as convinced as I am to find some trails to hike this winter? 
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​A Quick Reminder About Safety

Do not forget to dress in layers and bring water (or a thermos of tea!). As usual, it is a smart plan to go with other people, especially if you choose a longer, colder hike. Lastly, if you choose to go hiking in the SNOW, a good rule of thumb is to expect your adventure to take twice as long as usual. Start early in the day. Snow is a lot slower to get through than you might think. 

​Hikes and Trails Near Us

Looking for a short trail through a park with little time commitment?
Ebey Waterfront Park Trail - Marysville
Lake Stevens Centennial Trail Head
Deering Wild Flower Acres - Marysville

Ready for a day hike, and willing to drive a bit?
Camano Island State Park, Cama Beach State Park, Camano Island Ridge Trail, 4 Springs – Camano Island
Lake 22 – Granite Falls
Wallace Falls – Goldbar
Ebey’s Landing – Coupeville
The South Fork – Skokomish Olympic Peninsula

Dr. Matt's 4 boys bundled up at Cama Beach State Park!

​Want to venture out and try snowshoeing?
Stevens Pass Nordic Center
White Salmon Creek – Mount Baker Highway
Gold Creek – Snoqualmie Pass