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published in Cerebral Cortex confirm produces a flood of euphoria on cue. A quick jog or spirited walk outside helps elevate mood while strengthen- ing the immune system, helping to keep feelings of melancholy at bay. Before heading for the door, those


stretching their legs outside in colder climates need to dress as if it’s 20 degrees warmer than the thermometer reads. This helps prevent the body from overheating, especially after being sed- entary for an extended period. To get the blood flowing beforehand, do some simple stretching or take a few trips up and down the stairs.


One of the best ways to keep potential ’tis-the- season tensions under control is to carve out some time for exercise, a move supported by research findings at Princeton University.


Exercisers that prefer to stay sheltered from wintry weather entirely have a solid alternative; an indoor car- diovascular workout can mimic jogging’s mood-lifting effects. Try alternating 12 reps of jumping jacks, lunges, squats and crunches to get the heart pump- ing. Consider a second series for a higher intensity workout. All of it will give muscles that often go slack dur- ing holiday loafing a chance to flex. Because these moves don’t require any equipment, such electives are as portable as a travel hair dryer during holiday visits anywhere.


After one or more of these solo


workouts, many revelers may be ready to up the ante on family togetherness. For a healthy dose of quality time, round up the gang and enlist them in a high-energy outdoor activity like hik- ing, sledding or even Ultimate Frisbee. Participating in friendly family competi- tion is healthy fun and gives everyone something else to talk about later.


Sarah Todd is a freelance writer in Brook- lyn, NY. Connect at SarahToddInk.com.


natural awakenings December 2013 53


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