Check Your Home for Needed Spring Fixes

Believe it or not, #spring is almost here. And that means it’s time to prepare the house for warmer temperatures and fix anything that might have worn over the #winter. “Check flashing, caulking and shingles on your roof for damage from winter weather,” BluSky says. “These are prime opportunities for water to enter your attic and cause damage.” Also check the siding for loose pieces, clean gutters and downspouts, inspect electrical outlets for fire hazards, look for leaks on the water heater and washer, trim trees, and check caulking and insulation around the windows and doors. #EndOfWinter

Winter’s End Is in Sight

Late-season snowstorms and deep freezes notwithstanding, #winter will end one day. Embrace the #spring by getting started now on a few tasks to ease your schedule when the #weather takes a turn for the better! Check your home’s exterior for roofing damage, peeling paint, rotten wood and loose siding, and take note of anything that looks like it’s in need of repair, TNT suggests. Inspect your pipes and schedule spring #cleaning. Continue to avoid the contagious illnesses that are in the air. And if there is anything you meant to do outdoors in the winter weather such as walking, skiing or snowshoeing, get on it before it’s too late. #EndOfWinter

Slow and Steady Is Enough to Stay Active

You don’t have to go all-out to stay #acitve in the #winter; consistent movement is the goal. A long walk can be enough to clear the mind and get the blood pumping, and it’s easy to do, provided you’re dressed for the #weather. If winter is preventing an outdoor workout with ice, snow and sleet, take it inside. Apps can help you get more steps around the house or stretch constricted muscles. “Staying active doesn’t stop just because it’s cold,” Outside says. “Sometimes it just gets quieter, a little less polished and far more forgiving. And honestly, that might be winter’s greatest gift.” #StayingActive

Stretch Before Your Cold-Weather Workout

“Cold muscles are at a greater risk for strains and injuries, so make sure to warm up before your cold-weather workout,” says Harvard Health. To prevent injury, engage in dynamic stretching that loosens joints, gets the blood flowing and warms up muscles. Start with a series of arm circles and arm swings, and move on to sets of high steps and lunges. Even if that’s all you want to accomplish, the benefits to health and mobility can be substantial, but continuing on to complete a more intense #winter workout can convert white belly and thigh fat into calorie-burning brown fat. #StayingActive

How to Exercise in Severe Cold

Take it from winter athletes and military personnel serving in cold-weather locations, says the New York Times: You can stay active in the dead of #winter. Remember that your muscles will be slower to loosen and flex, however, so “adjust your pace and expectations accordingly.” Cover your mouth to prevent dryness and irritation to the airways, and wear a head covering to control the No. 1 source of heat loss. If you plan a vigorous workout, dress for the full extent of exertion; the clothes you wear to stay warm while standing still will be too heavy for a body experiencing a full range pf motion. #StayingActive