By Lucy Collins
The weather during the start of the spring semester at Roanoke College is most often than not very cold and gloomy. Cold weather and overcast skies can typically make students feel slow moving and wanting to stay in bed all day. It can be hard to get the motivation to exercise or eat right when cold weather is present. However, there is no reason for taking a break from physical activity or healthy habits after the cold weather hits.
There can be some pretty distinct advantages from keeping in tune with physical activity and healthy habits during the winter season. Depending on the person, exercising outdoors during the winter months can be far more invigorating because of the absence of heat and humidity in the air. Going for a brisk walk or jog during a cold day can also help stimulate the brain. For students who are not fond of exercising outside in the cold, there are many workout applications that are available to download on smartphones. This allows the individual to exercise in the comfort of their dorm room or home.
It is also very important to continue eating the right foods. During the winter, eating foods like oatmeal, fruits and veggies rich in vitamin C, iron rich foods (i.e., red meats, lentils, and leafy veggies), fish, eggs, cheese and soups is very beneficial for one’s health. Eating healthy also contributes to high energy levels as well as boosting the immune system. Keeping a healthy immune system is very important especially during the winter season. This is also very important on a college campus where illnesses can spread very easily.
Eating healthy and staying active can be very hard on a college student during the winter months, due to unwanted stress and gloomy weather. It is important to keep a positive attitude about staying healthy and active during the winter months. By engaging in these habits/activities the body will be very thankful.
