by Kathleen Richardson

Created on: May 01, 2008   Last Updated: May 13, 2012

Over 70: Thrive this winter

Winter comes every year, like it or not. You can choose to simply "make it through" the cold, snow and ice, or you can make a conscious decision to have a great time no matter what your age or limitations.

Winter weather may keep you more confined to your home than usual, but it doesn't mean you are stuck in limbo until next spring. You can make changes in your attitude and your life that will allow you to welcome the winter months every year.

1. Stretch

When you first sit up in bed in the morning, stretch your arms high above your head and take five deep breaths. Blink four or five times. Now open your eyes fully and roll them around so you're looking up, then right, down and left. Do it several times, then reverse directions. Repeat this exercise just before getting into bed at night and anytime during the day when you're feeling exhausted or sluggish.

2. Move

Winter sometimes makes movement more difficult. If it's extremely cold and icy, you may find yourself stuck inside and not able to take your usual walks. Walk inside your home, from room to room. Or gently dance around your living room. Walk in place. You can even move your feet up and down while you're seated. If getting around in icy conditions scares you, sign up now for a Tai Chi class. Tai Chi promotes serenity and balance.

3. Laugh

Laughter is contagious. It makes you and those around you feel good. Remember the hand-held laughter machines? Who could resist the silly, ongoing laughter coming out of one of those things? A University of Maryland Medical Center (Baltimore) report shows that laughter may be effective in protecting against heart attack. Laughter relieves stress. What and who makes you laugh? Keep a list handy and re-visit it often.

4. Cry

Before stress and tension build up and you think you can't take winter any more, make yourself cry. Read a sad book, focus on an unhappy memory, or watch a sad movie, such as Tom Hanks' Philadelphia. What and who makes you cry? Keep a list here, too.

5. Listen

Listen to a variety of music, such as the many types available on satellite radio. Many sources of news, sports, and talk shows are also available on satellite radio. Whenever you're in a public place on the street, in the library, in a store take time to listen. Listen to conversations, piped-in music, cell phone rings, doors opening and closing, children's laughter, and birds singing. Get out of your own head and let the rest of the world in.

6. Give

By all means,

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