Stay Safe & Healthy This Holiday Season: Healthy Mitten’s Guide to Winter Activities

The holiday season is a wonderful time in Michigan—sparkling snowfalls, festive lights, family gatherings, and plenty of winter fun. But with all the excitement comes a rise in common aches, pains, and injuries. Snow shoveling, decorating, long-distance travel, and winter sports can all take a toll on your spine and joints if you aren’t careful.

To help you stay healthy and enjoy every moment, Healthy Mitten is sharing top tips to keep your body moving safely this season.

Snow Shoveling: Protect Your Back

Shoveling is basically a workout—and a heavy one at that. Before you get started:

• Warm up your muscles with light stretching or a short walk.
• Use a lightweight ergonomic shovel to reduce strain.
• Push snow instead of lifting it whenever possible.
• Lift with your legs, not your back. Bend at the knees, keeping the back straight.
• Take breaks every 10–15 minutes to avoid fatigue and muscle strain.

Pro Tip: Wet snow is heavier! Shovel smaller loads to protect your low back.

Holiday Decorating & Projects: Reach Smart

Whether hanging wreaths, putting up a Christmas tree, or stringing lights along the roof, awkward stretching puts stress on the neck, shoulders, and lower back.

• Use a sturdy ladder and avoid leaning or reaching too far.
• Keep decorations close to your body when lifting or carrying them.
• Take your time—rushing leads to slips and missteps.

Avoid twisting while standing on ladders—move your entire body instead of rotating from the spine.

Long-Distance Driving: Chiropractor-Approved Travel Tips

Visiting family often means hours in the car. Sitting too long can tighten hip flexors, strain the neck, and cause lower back pain.

Try these posture-friendly habits:

• Adjust your seat so your knees are slightly higher than your hips.
• Support your low back with a rolled-up towel or lumbar pillow.
• Take movement breaks every 1–2 hours to stretch and walk.
• Keep your shoulders relaxed and your head aligned with the headrest.

Winter Sports: Warm Up Before You Hit the Ice

Michigan winters are perfect for ice skating, skiing, sledding, and snowboarding—but cold muscles are stiff muscles. Injury risk climbs when you skip warm-ups.

• Warm up for at least 5–10 minutes before activities.
• Use proper gear, including helmets and wrist protection when skating.
• Know your limits and pace yourself. If fatigue sets in, call it a day.

Give Yourself the Gift of Spinal Health

Regular chiropractic care can support mobility, reduce pain, and help your body recover from winter stress. If you notice tightness, soreness, headaches, or joint stiffness during holiday activities, don’t ignore it—your body may be asking for support.

Stay safe, stay active, and enjoy a healthy holiday season!

Visit your local Michigan chiropractor to keep your spine happy all winter long.