Winter weather does more than just inconvenience us and make traffic worse than usual. Extreme temperatures, high winds, and blizzards can weigh us down mentally and emotionally, creating additional tension during the already stressful holiday season.

Here are some ways to overcome stress and soothe tension away in spite of harsh winter weather and dangerous storms that may lie ahead.

Stress Caused by Winter Weather

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is typically caused by the lack of sunlight and outdoor time that individuals get in the winter months. Shorter days leave people feeling stressed out to get things done, which can lead to sleeping excessively, eating unhealthily, and withdrawing from friends and family.

Travel becomes more treacherous, and it can be very stressful to drive, fly, and even just walk during times of snow and ice. Cold weather can also make certain aches and pains you are feeling worse, such as arthritis and migraines. Weather fluctuations have a profound impact on our moods and general outlook on life, so it’s important to know a few coping strategies to get you through the season.

Be Prepared for Whatever the Weather Brings

Much of the stress that New Yorkers feel during the winter is due to a lack of preparedness and getting caught off-guard by storms. Make sure that you have a well-stocked emergency kit for your home, including snow shovels, sand for traction, a product to melt ice, heating fuel, non-perishable food, and warm blankets and clothing for everyone in your family. Then develop a family communications plan so that you know how to reach each other in case you are separated during extreme weather.

Also, have an experienced mechanic check your car for any issues and pack an emergency kit in your car as well. During snowstorms and extreme cold, stay indoors, walk carefully, and dress in warm waterproof layers. With the right precautions and by learning from the mistakes of past storms, you can reduce stress and stay safe this winter.

Warm Up with Hot Stone Massage NYC

While enduring all of the stress that winter and the holiday season bring, you owe it to yourself to indulge in a little self-care and wellness. Hot stone massage NYC uses smooth, volcanic basalt stones that are heated with a warm water or hot steam bath to place on various energy points on the body. This treatment is useful in promoting deep muscle and tissue relaxation, releasing toxins, relieving pain, improving blood circulation and calming the mind.

A NYC facial can also help relax you and help you put your best face forward every day. Stress has a way of aging you both mentally and physically, and a rejuvenating facial is an easy way to brighten your day and your complexion.

Change Your Environment and Travel

Sometimes all we need is a change of scenery and a change of pace to get back to feeling like ourselves again. Even during the winter, try to get outside for at least 15 to 30 minutes per day to get some fresh air and exercise.

This is also a great time of year to plan a trip! It can be just for a quick getaway the weekend or a longer trip to make use of those year-end vacation days. If you have a little more time, head to a sunny destination to reduce your stress and enjoy the uplifting warmth of the sun’s rays again.