It can sometimes feel like a real challenge to transition from summer to winter. Wrapping up in big warm coats and boots, raining days and often we are less active due to the bad weather. So what can you do to mind your well-being this winter? I have put together my top tips to make sure you keep your mind and body boosts over the cold, winter months in Ireland.   Colds, Flu’s and Lowered Immunity It tends to be this time of year we experience our first cold or flu which the change of temperature from a warm in doors to outdoors. Then one day its freeing cold outside next the sun is shining and we are hot! Rather than opt for supplements, try to boost your immunity with good hearty food. Dark green leafy vegetables are packed full of nutrients try to choose vegetables that are in season, garlic doesn’t just keep the vampires at bay(!) it also helps keep colds at bay.  Although it is cooler, still try to keep your fluid intake up, especially water. Maybe try some warming herbal teas. Stay Active Being active doesn’t necessarily mean hitting the gym or a fast-paced spinning class. Taking the stairs instead of the elevator, park your car a little further away or getting off the bus a little earlier – all this help burn a few more calories. It keeps your body fluid and your joint moving. Hibernation is Only For Bears Although we feel like we just need to hide away and hibernate in the winter minds, it is not good for our mental well-being. We can keep active by doing some simple exercises but we also need company and to be around good people. Make sure you schedule in your diary for a get together even if it’s just a coffee date – have a giggle and enjoy other people’s company away from the comfort of your sofa and fire. Acupuncture If you feel you need a little boost or that you are in pain why not book a session or two of acupuncture. This natural Chinese medicine is amazing for balancing the body, release pain and stiffness. I have experienced amazing results with my clients well-being after just one session.   So whatever you do this winter, make sure you look after your physical and mental well-being. I am here to answer any questions you have and if you feel you need to make an appointment with me feel free to drop me a line here or call...

I meet and successfully treat many joggers & runners who suffer from different injuries through over use and repetitive strain. But I do urge those who are looking to take up running as a hobby that ‘jogging’ is the better way to go. Here are my top tips why: Preconceptions can hold you back. For instance, what are your thoughts on jogging? Hard work? Tiring? Futile? Miles and miles of dull pavement pounding purgatory? These misconceptions couldn’t be further from the truth. Need more convincing? Read on. Gym, Jog or Sofa? Everyone wants to be more healthy. And this becomes all the more pressing the older we get. But it’s a difficult task. When it comes to working out how to work out signing up for a gym membership isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Similarly riding a bike means buying a bike, and then a helmet and a pump and lights and… Isn’t there anything that’s easy to get into and doesn’t mean standing next to Adonis-like twenty somethings admiring their youth in a floor to ceiling mirror? Goodness, yes. Jogging. Not walking but jogging. Not running but jogging. These are important distinctions. The more walking you can fit into your day the better, but it doesn’t really get the heart pumping. Running will fashion your body into the likeness of a primeval hunter, but that’s not necessary when the corner shop’s open till eleven. Jogging meanwhile gets your blood flowing but it isn’t going to alienate you from the first step. Think of it as enhanced walking and half the battle is won. While walking has it’s benefits, it’s undaunting and low impact, exchanging a walk for a jog can give your body so much more. Exercise is always vital but it becomes critical when your future independence relies on it. For the over 50s, keeping healthy is not just about looking good it’s about making sure you’re fit enough to look after yourself. Benefits you’ll get from jogging include: – increased overall fitness; – improved bone density (which keeps your body strong and reduces risk of injury); – improved cholesterol levels; – reduced inflammation; – enhanced mood. The Sensible Jogger Doesn’t that sound like a reassuring phrase? You don’t have to be a marathon runner to get these benefits. Start by jogging for just ten minutes. Don’t push yourself beyond what you’re comfortable with. Every little bit of activity will see the benefits coming at you immediately. And that means you’ll really feel them. Your mood can be lifted not only because of the physical effects but through a sense of achievement. In fact, starting out steadily is something your body will thank you for. If it’s...