Hello friends,
If you live in Toronto or north of the 43rd parallel then you understand that we are in the deepest part of winter.
It’s cold, snowy and we just want to stay cozy all the time.
You may notice your body just doesn’t function the same way as it does in mid July.
I always notice different physical symptoms at this time, from tight hips due to sitting way too much or menstrual cycles changing. Of course, mental health also struggles at this time. I’ve learned not to freak out, but to trust what my body is telling me.
I feel it too, as I haven’t had my daily walks with all the beautiful snow we received recently! 😁 However, I did get out for a walk today, even though it was -19, but the sun was out and I felt inspired! I put on some extra layers and it felt great to walk to the library to return some books. I always find it helpful to do some errands by foot these days for a reason to get on a walk.
I know a lot of people use their walking pads these days, which of course has its benefits when it’s raining/ sleet or icy weather. But don’t forget the other reason to get outside is to receive the healing benefits of full spectrum light. We need this for our circadian rhythm and hormones.
Middle of Winter Symptoms:
Achy & stiff body
Waking up puffy
Fatigue and foggy brain
Sinus congestion
Holding stress in the shoulders due to the extreme cold weather
So many more that are unique to you, due to inflammation
If you think about it, it actually makes sense, by the time we get to January, we:
We sit more.
Move less.
Breathe shallowly.
Stay indoors longer.
The body responds accordingly. We feel stagnant, and our body’s lymph system does as well.
The Most Underrated Lymph Medicine: Walking
If I had to choose one practice for lymph health, it would be walking.
Not intense workouts.
Not complicated biohacks
Just daily, rhythmic walking.
Walking gently contracts the muscles of your calves, hips, and core—areas rich in lymph vessels.
Each step creates a subtle pumping action that helps lymph move upward and out of the body.
Your winter prescription:
• Walk 10–30 minutes a day, even if it’s broken up
• Prioritize outdoor light when possible (even cloudy light counts)
• Walk at a comfortable, rhythmic pace—not rushed
• Let your arms swing and your breath deepen naturally
• Dress warm and walk anyway
On days you don’t feel like it, find one errand you can do by foot. Or buddy up with someone!
Walking gently supports:
• lymphatic drainage
• circulation to cold hands and feet
• digestion and elimination
• nervous system regulation
• mood and mental clarity
A Few Other Options:
Deep belly breathing – slow, intentional breaths help move lymph through the chest
Jumping on one spot with arm swings
Hydration – lymph is mostly water; drink plenty of water with minerals
Dry brushing – a quick, gentle way to stimulate surface lymph
Contrast showers – hot to cold creates a natural pumping effect
Pick one or two and focus on those.
This is your reminder the most supportive thing you can do at this point of our winter is simply step outside and keep moving—remember, spring is 50 days away!
A Gentle Reminder
If you need help with rewiring your nervous system, my course below can help you make the necessary changes to align your behaviours to your intentions.
If you are needing more one on one assistance, I’m also available for personalized coaching.
With love,
Sylvie
Upcoming Sound Bath - Friday January 30th
A few spots left!
Smoking Frog Studio - Friday January 30th
7pm doors open
7:30pm prompt start (doors will close)
665 Dupont St. Toronto,
(Lower level of Elgin Picture & Frame)
$40
Respond to this email to register.
I look forward to seeing you ✨💛
Sylvie xoxo
In Case You Missed It
A recording from my last sound meditation. (Listen with headphones)
