It took me a while to learn the ropes - I am a "cold person" who is "circulation challenged" and not one for over-exertion - but now that I know how to dress and have the right gear, I LOVE getting outdoors in wintertime to hike, walk, and xc ski.

Moving outdoors and enjoying the winter sun can do wonders for your mood and overall vitality.

Some Winter Tips:

Layer clothing (you get warm once you start moving, but you don't want to start off cold), opting for synthetic, fleece, silk, bamboo, and/or wool fabrics (not cotton). For example: leggings under fleece sweatpants; a thinner longsleeve shirt + fleece or wool sweater + vest/jacket.

Cold Hands? Consider thin (such as microfleece) gloves inside warm bulky mitts. Extra cold hands? Stuff hand warmers into the mittens - soooo niiiiice.

On Your Feet: We love xc skiing when conditions permit. For walks or hiking (or just doing things in the yard) on icy or packed snow conditions, microspikes are ah-mazing and can be literally life-saving! Snowshoes are not as fun as they seem (but they are a tremendous workout) and are best for deeper or fluffy snow conditions to avoid/limit punching through.

Head Out in the Morning or Mid-Day to catch some of that scarce summer sun - your endocrine system and mood will thank you, and you'll come back to home or work feeling invigorated. Whether you're in the woods or just going for a quick walk around the block during your break.

Be Safe! If you're headed to the mountains or other potentially sketchy trails, pack appropriate foot traction, warm layers, "oh s**t"  (super warm) clothes in your backpack, extra water, food, compass, map, extra socks and mittens, and safety equipment/survival kit in case you get stuck. Know your trails (they're very different in winter). Bring a hiking buddy and always tell folks where you're going.
Click Here for more Safe Hiking Tips.

In winter, I personally prefer easy local trails that don't risk inadvertently sliding off an icy cliff. But, even with that, I bring my safety gear, dress smart, and put on my spikes as soon as the trails freeze up. I actually prefer winter hiking these days - no bugs! 🙂

Clinical herbalist Maria Noël Groves sees clients and teaches classes at Wintergreen Botanicals Herbal Clinic & Education Center in Allenstown, New Hampshire.

The statements made on this blog have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, prescribe, recommend, treat, cure, or offer medical advice. Please listen to your body and see your health care practitioner for help regarding what approaches are best for *your* health.