How to Take Care of Yourself This Season
With the hustle of holiday travel and the endless days of excitement over shredding the newly snow-laden landscapes, we're probably doing everything we can to keep our gear in tip-top condition and our travel plans running smooth. But what are we doing for ourselves? Sure, we're getting outside, doing things, and seeing the people who make us feel whole, which is totally a crucial part of self-care during these colder months. But all of this, as much as we might like to avoid it, does take a toll on our bodies. Whether it be the stress from travel or the lack of sleep from early morning pursuits, you might feel it by the end of the season (and maybe even by the end of the week). We're not suggesting you stop your typical winter fun, but rather, incorporate some small habits into these busy times to help you make the most of them. Even if you're a spry, young outdoor enthusiast who hasn't felt the effects of age yet, we urge you to read on to keep that body and spirit going as long as possible. These are not groundbreaking, and a majority of you might already do this. Still, if you've been burning out or getting sick/injured season after season, we have a sneaking suspicion these might help. Let's get into it!Daily Stretching/Rolling
Maybe this is already standard practice for you as you get into the heat of your outdoor recreation, but if it isn't, try including this before you strap in, when you get home, or both. Stretching doesn't have to be some long endeavor, either. By simply holding a stretch on whatever areas of the body are feeling your efforts for at least 30 seconds, you'll be set for success! If you'd like to take this a step further, consider adding a yoga class here and there. If you don't have access to one locally, pop "yoga" or "yoga forPack Snacks
It might seem obvious, but you can only ski into the night if you have the fuel to get you there. If you have a favorite granola/protein bar, we suggest buying it in bulk and either leaving it by the door, by your gear, or in the car so you know you always have something with you. If you use the same bag each time you head out, you could also throw a few in there. Other awesome options to keep you moving are jerky, dried fruit, nuts, and granola. If you're feeling extra prepared that morning, you can also pack a sandwich or other easy handheld food. (Shout-out to Uncrustables!) Adjacent to this is ensuring you eat before and after a big day. Meal prep can be a significant help here because getting the right amount of food in your system is crucial when expending energy all day (especially in the cold.) This will save you a couple $ $ $ on lodge food, too!Learn the Art of Saying No
It's prime time for snow lovers, and we get it because it's our prime time, too, but rest cannot wait until the spring. Maybe this week at work was particularly challenging; maybe you landed a jump wrong last weekend, and you're still feeling it; maybe you just need a break from the bustle of the long lines and apres; maybe you just don't wanna. Let's be 100% clear: Any and all other reasons to not want to participate in what might be your favorite activity are A-OK and should really be listened to. In an outdoor culture where there is so much pressure to perform and stand out, there comes an overwhelming feeling of FOMO and not being a real "snowboarder," "skier," "climber," or whatever the sport may be. Even the best athletes in the world know when and how to rest; it is a requirement for them to perform at the level they do. So if they can do it and find its benefit and joy, you can, too. We promise.Go to Bed!
Sleep! Please, for the love of all good things, sleep! It should go without saying, but prioritizing this means better recovery and sharper focus throughout the next day. This doesn't mean you can't stay out with friends or miss a few hours here and there; that's unrealistic. But making it more of a priority throughout the season is all we're asking.Now if you've gotten this far, we're proud of ya. Taking care of yourself can be hard for so many reasons but with the cold and all the fun things we like to get into during the cold months, our bodies and minds might need some special attention. Don't be afraid to take a day for yourself if it means better days on the slopes. Have fun, be well, we'll catch you out there!