Friday Health & Wellness: Winter Pain Is Real

It’s cold.

Rain tapping the windows.

Possible snow tonight.

My body is aching pretty bad today… and I won’t sugarcoat that.

But I’m under my cozy electric blanket, Netflix is on, and I’ve accepted that this is part of my winter reality. And honestly? That acceptance alone brings a little relief.

So I thought this would be a good Friday to revisit something many of us quietly deal with:

Winter pain.

Why Winter Makes Pain Worse

If your joints feel stiffer, achier, or louder in the winter, you’re not imagining it.

Here’s what’s happening:

Barometric Pressure Drops

When air pressure falls, the tissues around your joints can expand.

That extra pressure can irritate nerves and increase pain.

Cold Temperatures Tighten Muscles

Cold causes blood vessels to constrict, pulling warmth toward the core and away from joints and extremities — leading to stiffness and discomfort.

Joint Fluid Thickens

The lubricating fluid in our joints can thicken in colder weather, making movement feel harder and less smooth.

Less Sun, Less Movement, Lower Mood Winter often means less activity, lower Vitamin D, and increased stress — all of which can amplify pain signals in the body.

How to Find Relief (Gently)

This isn’t about pushing through pain — it’s about supporting your body where it is.

Stay Gently Active Light stretching, slow indoor movement, or short walks (when weather allows) help keep joints from locking up.

Keep Warm Layers, socks, gloves, heating pads, warm showers — warmth is medicine in winter.

Hydrate & Eat with Intention

Water matters more than we think.

Adding anti-inflammatory foods like ginger or turmeric can also help calm the body.

Use Relief Tools Wisely

Over-the-counter medications or topical creams can help, but always listen to your body and check with a healthcare provider if needed.

And One More Thing… Acceptance

Some days, relief looks like movement.

Other days, it looks like an electric blanket and rest.

Today, I’m choosing rest — without guilt.

Winter pain doesn’t mean weakness.

It means your body is responding to its environment.

Be gentle with yourself.

Support your body.

And don’t ignore pain that feels severe or unusual — always seek medical guidance when needed.

For now… I’m breathing, warm, and okay.

And that’s enough for today. 🌻