As we settle into the winter months and the routines of the new year, it’s important to stay mindful of both physical activity and nutrition. Colder weather and shorter days can make it more challenging to maintain healthy habits, but staying consistent with movement and balanced eating can support both physical and mental well-being throughout the season.

Staying Active During Winter

Maintaining regular physical activity during the winter months is essential for overall health. Physical activity helps manage stress, boost mood, and support immune health—benefits that are especially important during this time of year. Even short periods of movement, such as a walk or a gentle stretch, can release endorphins and help reduce anxiety.

The CDC recommends that adults ages 18 to 64 aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week. Embracing winter-specific activities or shifting workouts indoors can help keep movement enjoyable and accessible.

Some ways to stay active during winter include:

• Sledding
• Skiing or snowboarding
• Ice skating
• Short outdoor walks when weather allows
• Indoor classes such as yoga, Pilates, cycling, or dance

Creating a consistent activity schedule can make movement a regular part of your routine and help reduce daily stress. In addition to planned exercise, incorporating short movement breaks throughout the day—such as 5–10 minutes of stretching or a 15–30 minute walk after long periods of sitting—can significantly improve overall wellness.

Nutrition During the Winter Months

Eating well during winter can sometimes feel challenging, especially when comfort foods are more appealing. Focusing on consistency rather than perfection is key. Maintaining regular meal times, keeping portion sizes balanced, and allowing flexibility can help reduce stress around food.

One helpful approach to preventing overeating is to pause when you feel about 80% full, giving your body time to recognize fullness. Planning ahead also plays an important role—keeping healthy snacks on hand, such as fruits, vegetables, or nuts, makes it easier to make nutritious choices when hunger strikes.

Mindful eating can help you stay connected to hunger and fullness cues, while staying hydrated is equally important. Dehydration can sometimes be mistaken for hunger, as both signals originate from the same area of the brain. Drinking water regularly—and pausing to hydrate when you feel hungry—may help curb unnecessary snacking.

Community Support and Resources

Staying active and maintaining healthy eating habits can be challenging, but support is available. Southwest Health offers a variety of nutrition services, including guidance on general healthy eating and weight management. These services provide personalized plans tailored to individual needs.

In addition, Southwest Health offers free group presentations and educational opportunities focused on wellness and healthy lifestyle habits—helping individuals make informed choices while still enjoying the foods they love.

Learn More: Free Community Presentation on Healthy Aging

As part of its commitment to community wellness, Southwest Health invites community members to attend a free educational presentation focused on healthy aging, cognitive wellness, and lifelong fitness.

“Healthy Aging: Supporting Your Body and Mind at Every Stage of Life” will feature expert insights from Dr. Zach Droeszler, MD, family medicine physician at Southwest Health, and Trina Marone, Rehab Services Physical Therapist and community wellness advocate.

Dr. Droeszler will discuss the importance of cognitive health and how physical activity, sleep, nutrition, and chronic disease management all play a role in maintaining brain function as we age. Marone will highlight the importance of fitness for longevity and vitality, emphasizing that movement is not just something we have to do—but something we get to do.

Attendees will learn practical, realistic strategies for supporting both physical and cognitive health and discover local resources available to help them stay active and engaged at any age.

Event Details:

Date: Thursday, January 15, 2026

Time: 1:30 p.m.

Location: EMS Conference Room, Southwest Health, 1350 Eastside Road, Platteville, WI

The presentation is open to the public, and seating is limited. RSVPs are encouraged to help plan accommodations. To reserve a spot, visit southwesthealth.org/Healthy-Aging.