logo
8 Tips to Stay Active this Winter 

With colder days and longer nights upon us, it may be harder to motivate or find time during the daylight hours to be active. But getting regular exercise and moving your body is one of the best ways to stay fit and improve your mental and physical health. 

Here are some tips to help:
  1. Take a mid-day stroll. Walking is among the best and safest exercises you can do. You’ll also get some fresh air – and fresh perspective – to meet the demands of your day.

  2. Find an exercise buddy or group. You’ll not only gain added social support, but you’ll also be less apt to skip out if you know someone is waiting for you.

  3. Focus on the mental health benefits. You’ll feel better and less stressed by being active. And between the rush of the holidays and the winter blues, exercise can help boost your spirits.

  4. Have the right gear on hand. Make sure you have the right footwear and warm-weather exercise clothing, including lots of layers, a hat, and gloves. Plan ahead by looking at the weekly weather forecast to choose milder days.

  5. Take it online. Many aerobics, dance, yoga, and stretching classes are available for little to no cost via Zoom and other online platforms – and you can join from anywhere.

  6. Set a “move your body” alarm. If you spend much of your day at a desk, driving or just sitting, it’s really important to take time to stretch and get even brief bursts of activity.

  7. Mix it up. Try something new – perhaps swimming at a local indoor pool, taking a dance class, skiing or ice-skating.

  8. Manage stress. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re less likely to feel up to exercise. Try deep breathing, meditation, or other mindfulness activities to help relax your body and mind.
Experts Warn of a Triple Threat as Cases of RSV, Flu and COVID-19 Spread
While COVID-19 is still very much a concern, flu and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) are on the rise. RSV and flu are very serious and causing an increase in wait times at doctor’s offices. 
Because they share so many symptoms, it can be hard to know which one you’re dealing with. If you or someone in your household is sick, talk with your doctor about getting tested.
Common symptoms:
  • Cough
  • Body or muscle aches
  • Fever
  • Runny, stuffy nose
  • Shortness of breath
For these minor symptoms, instead of going to urgent care or the ER, you can go to your:
  • Doctor/PCP
  • Child’s pediatrician
  • Employer's on-site clinic
When possible, we encourage you to visit your on-site clinic for respiratory and other non-life-threatening illnesses or injuries before visiting the Emergency Room, Urgent Care, or even your pediatrician. 
It’s Not Too Late to Get Your Flu Shot
If you haven’t already rolled up your sleeve for your flu shot or latest COVID-19 booster, it’s not too late. The flu usually peaks in January or February, so make sure you – and those around you – are protected. The vaccine is the best way to avoid serious illness.

Counseling with Betsey Brooks
Elizabeth "Betsey" Brooks, MS, EdS, LCMHCA, NCC is the NEW Ralph Lauren onsite Counselor. She is here to help employees and their families. Her services are free to employees and their qualifying spouses and dependents.
  • Individual counseling
  • Career counseling
  • Referrals to other mental health professionals
  • Depression
  • Workplace stress
  • Anxiety
  • Grief and loss
  • Trauma
  • Conflict Resolution
  • And more!
Appointments are available on Tuesdays at HPD and Wednesdays at NC66; 9 am - 5 pm. 

Contact Betsey at 336-416-3623.

Book An Appointment at the Clinic
Wellness Website
myWakeHealth


powered by emma
Subscribe to our email list.