Winter Wellbeing

Over the next few months, we’ll be focusing on winter wellbeing within the clinic.

During the colder, darker months, many of us notice a dip in our overall health and mood. As the nights draw in, we often spend less time outdoors and more time sitting inside. While being outside in natural light helps boost vitamin D, lift our mood, and keep us active, the lower winter sun means we naturally produce less vitamin D. This is why supplementation is often recommended during the winter months.

Reduced activity can also affect our serotonin levels, as well as limit how much we move our bodies and connect with others. Both play an important role in maintaining our physical and emotional wellbeing. Winter is therefore a perfect time to introduce simple home exercises and joint mobilisations. These gentle movements help keep joints working to their full potential, reducing stiffness and supporting long‑term mobility.

Prolonged sitting, whether at social events, during hobbies, or while binge‑watching shows like Traitors or MAFS can also lead to aches and pains. We’ve all experienced that stiff feeling after a long drive; sitting for extended periods has the same effect. Gentle yoga moves can be a great way to restore mobility and ease discomfort.

We also tend to see an increase in trips, slips, and falls during the winter months. Slippery pavements, putting up decorations, or even festive celebrations can all play a part. Research shows that both chiropractic care and yoga can help reduce the risk of falls by improving balance, strength, and mobility.

Another common issue is neck and shoulder tension. When we feel the cold, we naturally hunch our shoulders and curl inwards, which can create a rounded posture and discomfort. While we can’t always turn the heating up, wearing scarves and layers, along with gentle pec stretches and shoulder‑opening movements, can make a big difference.

Finally, our hydration and nutrition habits often change with the colder weather. Many of us (myself included!) reach for hot drinks more often and forget about water intake. But staying hydrated is key to keeping the body functioning at its best, so instead of reaching for that cup of coffee,

lets think about herbal teas or a sip of water.

Over the coming months, we’ll be exploring these themes in more depth and offering Winter Wellbeing sessions to support you through the season.