Four tips to make your winter getaway a healthy one

Colder temperatures, snow, slush and shorter days often make us dream of a sunny getaway. If you’re planning to trade your winter boots for sandals on an upcoming winter vacation, we’ve compiled some helpful tips to make your trip enjoyable, and healthy too.

Consider wearing compression stockings while flying
If you’re travelling by plane, and have blood circulation problems, you may want to consider getting a pair of compression stockings to help reduce leg swelling, discomfort, and blood clots from forming near the skin’s surface. Other tips for preventing circulation problems while en route include standing up and walking around periodically, drinking water, and doing leg-stretching exercises. 

Be ‘sun smart’
Many would agree that there truly is nothing better than relaxing outdoors, perhaps soaking up a few of those golden rays. But like most of the things we enjoy in life, moderation is the key and that's especially true when it comes to sun exposure. Click here to read these six tips on how to stay safe in the sun.

Stay active
Warmer weather provides for more enjoyable exercise. Consider getting out for a walk to stay healthy and mobile. It’s not only great for your health, but a good way to enjoy the scenery and explore new places. Have access to a pool, lake or ocean? Try aquatic exercise, a low impact workout that’s gentle on joints, bones and muscles and is at least as effective as land-based exercise.

Eat well
Vacations are an opportunity to unwind, relax and recharge. They can also be a time to indulge. While treating yourself is ok, there are ways to keep your healthy eating and drinking habits on track, even while you’re away. Enjoy happy hour responsibly by limiting your alcohol intake to one drink if you choose to indulge. When dining out, use menu labels to help you choose healthier options and keep portions to a reasonable size so you can enjoy your restaurant meal without worrying about jeopardizing your health or weight.


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DISCLAIMER: Many of our Blog Posts were written before the COVID-19 pandemic and thus do not necessarily reflect the latest public health recommendations. While the content of these blogs identify activities that support optimal aging, it is important to defer to the most current public health recommendations such as social distancing and frequent hand washing. Some of the activities suggested within these blogs may need to be modified or avoided altogether to comply with current social distancing recommendations. To view the latest updates from the Public Health Agency of Canada, please visit their website