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February 3, 2011

5 Ways to Stay Happy and Healthy During the Winter Months ~ Pam Finver

When the weather gets colder, even the most simple outdoor activities become a daunting task. Instead of hibernating this season, try a few of these tips to heat things up.

1. Cook Seasonally – Now is NOT the time to stray from fruits and vegetables!  Despite the cold, the winter months are the best time to try to the bold fruits, such as pummelos, grapefruits and kiwis. Most acidic and tangy fruits are in season starting in January and stay juicy through the springtime. As for vegetables, brussels sprouts, leeks, beets and kale are among the best winter veggies and have even been known to have cancer-fighting properties. Stay warm in the kitchen and cook up some fresh winter dishes!

For a more comprehensive list, check out: http://localfoods.about.com/od/whatsinseason/a/WinterFruitVeg.htm

2. Plant Indoor Plants – Gardening tends to be seen as a spring/summer ritual, but that doesn’t mean you can’t work your green thumb in the other seasons too! Be particular in your selection because indoor plants sometimes require a different upkeep than outdoor plants. Don’t forget to give your plant plenty of water, sunlight and to sing to your new housemate. The splash of green (or whatever color plant you choose) will do you good and add a hint of color to your home.

Expand your plant knowledge, check out: http://www.plantcare.com/

3. See Live Music – It may be cold outside, but what better way to warm up than getting down to some live tunes. So, don’t forget to check your coat at the door cause the venue is sure to get warm. With a variety of music to check out around town, you are sure to find something that meets your fancy. Plus, if you can move to the beat you can even get a cardio workout in!

Find all your ticket needs at: http://www.stubhub.com/concert-tickets/

4. Play Snow Sports – If you live in Colorado, you don’t have to be told twice to hit the slopes. Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or any of the other snow sports, do it frequently, carefully and in style. If you are driving up to the mountains, be good to the planet and carpool. However, if you are not into the mainstream snow sports, everyone can enjoy a good old-fashion snowball fight! There are also snow angels, snowmen and sledding; all you need is the snow.

Don’t forget to check the snow report before you head up there: http://www.skireport.com/

5. Do Yoga ­– And of course, the list would not be complete without yoga. Whatever variation you enjoy from Yin to Vinyasa to Hot, yoga is the perfect exercise routine to incorporate into your schedule this winter. While yoga is beneficial to the body during any season, the restriction on outdoor activities, such as hiking, provides more time to spend in your practice. So why not spend a little more time on your mat (where its warm)? Even if it just breathing, taking the time to come to your mat will make you feel better than sitting on the couch.

Whether you are going out, staying in or getting down, stay active and feel great!

Pam Finver is a child of the world transplanted in Boulder, Colorado. She is a student at the University of Colorado at Boulder, acquiring her BA in Studio Art with an emphasis in Digital Media. She is a lover of the arts and enjoys travelling.

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