Posture of a Cold Body
The Posture of Cold
Now that the temperatures have FINALLY dropped in Texas, have you noticed how your body instinctively shifts to stay warm? Without even realizing it, many of us adopt postures that generate heat but can also lead to pain and discomfort.
Cold Weather and Your Posture
When you’re cold, it’s common to:
• Shrug your shoulders up to your ears (hello, levator scapulae and upper traps!).
• Fold your arms tightly across your chest.
• Hunch forward to protect your body from the chill.
These movements are your body’s way of trying to generate heat and preserve warmth. While effective in the short term, over time, they can lead to muscle tension, discomfort, and even chronic pain.
Why Does Cold Weather Make Us Stiff?
1. Muscles Are Temperature-Sensitive
Cooler muscles are stiffer muscles. When combined with static holding patterns—like hunching or shrugging—this stiffness can linger. For those with arthritis or other conditions that heighten cold sensitivity, the discomfort can be even more pronounced.
2. Barometric Pressure Changes
Shifts in barometric pressure during cooler months can affect your joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments, contributing to pain and tightness.
3. Lack of Movement
Shorter days and colder weather often mean more time indoors and less physical activity. Without regular movement, joints and soft tissues can become tight and stiff, exacerbating discomfort.
4. Age-Related Changes
As we age, we naturally experience a decline in collagen and muscle mass. This, combined with the other factors, can make cold weather an even bigger challenge.
How to Combat Cold-Weather Discomfort
The good news? There’s plenty you can do to stay warm and keep your body feeling great during the colder months!
1. Layer Up!
Wear warm clothing both outside and inside. A scarf around your neck or even your hips can help retain heat. If you’re managing heating costs with a lower thermostat, throw on a sweater or sweatshirt to stay cozy.
2. Keep Moving
Exercise is key to keeping your body warm and mobile. Whether it’s yoga, dancing, jogging, or cycling, find an activity you enjoy. Movement raises your body temperature and helps prevent stiffness.
3. Try an Infrared Sauna
Infrared saunas not only help you feel warm and relaxed but can also be a great addition to your exercise routine or simply a stand-alone treat.
4. Use Hot Packs
Microwave a hot pack and tuck it into your bed before sleeping it’s the perfect way to make your bed warm and inviting. Or drape it over your shoulders for instant relief from cold-induced tension.
5. Myofascial Release
When cold weather has your shoulders creeping up and your neck aching, Myofascial Release (MFR) can work wonders. By gently releasing fascial restrictions and relaxing tight muscles, MFR helps reduce back and neck pain caused by hunching and shoulder hiking. Plus, it retrains your body to keep your shoulders relaxed, even when it’s cold.
Pro Tip: Layer up for your trip to and from your MFR appointment your fascia will thank you!
Take Care This Winter
Cold weather doesn’t have to mean discomfort. By staying warm, moving regularly, and treating yourself to some self-care, you can keep your body feeling great all winter long.