
As we move deeper into winter, Mid-State Health is reminding our community that physical activity is essential for both physical and mental well-being, regardless of the season. Cold temperatures and shorter days can make outdoor exercise seem less appealing but staying active during the winter months is crucial to maintaining overall health and quality of life. No matter your age, it’s important to find ways to keep your body moving.
Winter offers a variety of exciting opportunities for physical activity, including skiing, ice skating, and snowshoeing. These winter sports not only provide fun but also engage muscles and improve coordination. Even when outdoor options are limited, indoor workouts like yoga, strength training, or home exercise routines can keep the body moving when it’s too cold outside. Even those with limitations can benefit from low-impact exercises, such as walking, stretching, or chair-based activities, which help maintain flexibility and balance. Encouraging people of all ages to stay active is key to promoting long-term health and wellness.
In addition to the physical benefits, staying active during the winter months can also help combat seasonal depression and manage stress. Regular exercise releases endorphins, which can help improve mood and mental well-being, making it especially important when the weather can make us feel more isolated or sluggish.
“Staying active, even during the winter months, is key to keeping both your body and mind in good shape,” says Mid-State Health’s Director of Rehab Services, Matthew Scagliarini, PT, DPT. “Whether you’re indoors or outdoors, regular movement helps reduce the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes, boosts your mood, and keeps energy levels high. It’s about making physical activity a priority, no matter the season.”
Water exercise and aqua therapy also provide heart healthy cardiovascular benefits as well as muscle strengthening with low risk of falls or joint injuries. Mid-State Health’s 35 foot, 90-degree therapy pool is a great option for anyone in the community to gain some aquatic exercise and is equipped with everything you need to have a safe and effective workout. To sign up, visit the Aquatic and Fitness page at midstatehealth.org.
Mid-State Health encourages everyone to explore fun and creative ways to stay active this winter. Staying active is a simple and effective way to protect both your body and mind, no matter what the weather brings. For more information on staying active during the winter and other health tips, visit Mid-State Health’s website at midstatehealth.org.
About Mid-State Health Center
Mid-State Health Center delivers primary care and supportive services at locations in Bristol, Plymouth, and Lincoln, offering medical services, dental services, behavioral health counseling, physical and occupational therapy,
imaging, infusion, recovery, and care management for the entire family. The mission of Mid-State Health Center is to provide sound primary health care to the community accessible to all regardless of the ability to pay.