The cold winds are a blowin’ and the natural response is to hunker down and hibernate.

To be honest, I love the crispness of the cool weather.  Truth be told, I do hate the cold.  And yet, I love being outside.

Given our times and the restrictions of doing business ‘as usual’, remote working is for the time our world.

We cannot forget, nor dismiss the importance of dedicating time to ourselves, our personal mental well being and the benefits of simply getting out there… whether running, hiking, or walking.  It is often all too easy to be caught up with things ( hellooooo… Guilty as charged!) and overlook this.

Did you know that getting outside for whatever your pursuit will:

Be a natural antidepressant.

Getting outside exercise may ward off seasonal affective disorder (SAD), depression and anxiety because sunshine naturally increases serotonin, a hormone that affects your mood. And exercise itself produces endorphins, another feel-good hormone that boosts your mood and reduces pain.

It challenges your body.

With the ever changing terrain, more so than when indoors, your body, with different muscle challenges will be stimulated.

Mental relief.

Indoor  exercise may seem like a chore, but getting outside  feels like a reprieve and a break from the norm. Changing your normal ‘space’ is good for your physically and well as providing a visual and environmental respite from your day.

Vitamin D

Outdoor exercise is a way to get your vitamin D through sunlight. This is especially important if you are overweight, as research suggests that people who are overweight are more likely to be deficient in vitamin D. This boost is good on many levels. According to Mayo Clinic studies, it plays a vital role in cognitive health as well as slowing down osteomalacia resulting in loss of bone mineral content.

But getting outside with frequency, and comfort is often a challenge. I will admit I love outdoor activity, but hate feeling cold or any discomfort ( I DO live in Canada soooo…) The key is to be comfortable whatever the elements may throw your way.  I am a 12 month a year adventurer and I have to say I have found some favourites that make each outing enjoyable. Being prepared always makes the outing more enjoyable!

Finding a jacket that protects against the elements, yet allows you to not overheat during your hike is a fine balance. This GEMYSE  mountain jacket is wind and waterproof and has a cosy inner fleece lining.  With a removable storm hood and a myriad of pockets, it’s perfect for your outdoor adventures. Additionally, compared to many of the other outdoor jackets with all these features, it is an absolute bargooooon at $89.99!

My Mountain Warehouse Montana micro fleece 1/4 zip pullover is new to the roster.  I have quite often found the fleece options to be rather bulky and not always great for layering.  This is lightweight whilst still providing warmth, and has some nice contract stitch details for a nice touch.

Perhaps the best find of the year for me has been Gimdumasa yoga pants .  High waisted with tummy control, a side pocket for your phone, and made of a super buttery soft fabric, they are now my go-to when looking for comfort whether for an activity or simply lounging. At $29.99 they are an absolute deal and put some of the big brands at their $100+ price tags to shame.  ( and YES, I did go back and buy a couple more!)

On those days when the wind is fierce and you need a little bit more protection for the booty, these Eddie Bauer pants are perfect.  With a wind resistant two-way stretch exterior fabric for comfort and ease of movement, the inner fleece lining keeps things toasty. The zippered cargo pockets are super handy too!

My Head multi-sport gloves are great for warmth without bulk. Designed with SensaTEC they’re great for gripping hiking poles or maneuvering your smart phone for that perfect snap.

Sturdy and comfortable footwear is vital to ensure good grip on icy or slippery terrain, and support on those rocky hikes.   I have had my Solomon X Ultra 3  and they have served me well not only for hiking, but additionally on the snowshoe trails.

With all the health benefits and options to stay comfortably warm, get yourself geared up and get outside!

xoxo – Sandra