January: what to talk to your people about
A fresh start that sticks, snow on the walks and dry winter air.
A goal to start, not a habit to stop
In a year-long experiment with about 1,000 adults, people who framed a resolution as something to start doing did better than people who framed it as something to stop. It’s a good month to suggest one small thing to begin, like a standing visit.
For: Every service
Source: Oscarsson et al., PLOS ONE, 2020
Shoveling and the lower back
US emergency rooms see thousands of snow shoveling injuries every winter, and the lower back is the part hurt most often. Tips for pushing rather than throwing snow land well the week of the first big snow.
For: Chiropractic, Massage
Source: Nationwide Children’s Hospital, on a national study of snow shovel injuries, 2011
Dry air, dry skin
Winter is hard on skin. Dermatologists suggest gentle, fragrance-free cleansers in winter and a thick cream on skin that’s still damp after bathing.
For: Skin care
Source: American Academy of Dermatology, Winter skin survival kit
Paws after salted sidewalks
De-icers picked up on walks can harm a pet that licks them off. Veterinarians suggest wiping feet, legs and belly after every walk, and trimming the hair between the toes helps keep ice from balling up.
For: Grooming
Source: American Veterinary Medical Association, Cold weather animal safety