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RA - Season Changes Autumn and Winter How about you?

Well folks it is Autumn here in the U.S. with winter closing fast. During this time of year I usually start flaring up more then other times and my depression tries hard to get out of control. This usually happens with the shorter days and the changing of the temperatures at a more rapid pace. Hoping that with global warming the Spring will come a little sooner, not really wanting global warming though either. My sleeping usually changes for insomnia to wanting to sleep constantly.

This is when my medications and / or self helps start getting doubled up and the warm fuzzy clothing comes out in force! Some of things I use to help make myself more comfortable during this time I will list in a moment.

Just wondering if there is others out there that go through something like this and what you do to help yourself through it.

My list of Cold weather must have's.

1) soft fuzzy throw or blankets in the every room except the dining and kitchen area (don't need any fires or food being carried through the house). Yes, I have a bad habit of carrying them to the bathroom with me though.
2) Earth Therapeutics Shea Butter Thermal Moisturizing Socks - these are SO YUMMY.. I use these like slippers around the house and some for bedtime if needed to keep the feet happy and warm
3) stocking up and arranging my parafinn wax machine to use for my hands, elbows, feet and anything else I can dip.
4) cardigan sweaters that I can add or remove anytime needed for warmth before it is time for that cozy blanket.
5) long sleeve shirts (preferred T-shirts) that are soft to wear for the sweaters are to rough for my winter skin.
6) Warm showers with stretching during them, doing more if possible then I would normally during the warmer part of the year.
7) continue on with any type of exercise with in my home that I can of course.
😎 home made soups of many kinds. This is just my winter "comfort food" spoiled aren't I ?

Would love to see what others do during the Seasonal Changes and what you use to help you through these changes.

  1. , I think your list of cold weather must haves is lovely and it makes me feel just warm and cozy reading it! I think your list has plenty of my personal must haves, but I'll add a few more, for fun --


    I personally pull out my warm fuzzy socks and my heavy duty workman's socks, like the kind you make sock money dolls out of (my toes are pretty cold from November to May/June!).


    I also find some fun, warm drinks that are easy to heat up. Like apple cider, hot cocoa, and teas.


    I love my heating pad during the winter months (I've worn out FIVE over the years!!).


    I make sure I have some candles and plenty of warm light lightbulbs (those blue light ones remind me way too much of a depressing office space).


    We have one of those fake fireplace/heater things from Walmart and it's so fun to flip a switch, watch the simulated flames, and curl up on the couch with a blanket and a good book.


    Thanks for prompting me to think of my list and I hope other community members keep this going!


    Best, Erin, RheumatoidArthritis.net Team Member.

    1. Swimming and ideally going to the sauna. Eating spicy food may also help with blood circulation and warm you up.

      1. Hi dltld, shea thermal socks, good idea, even for gift giving. Just like the candles. I am so sensing, feeling that I feel cozy near that simulated flames. thank you all love, eliroe

        1. What a great list, ! I tend to get a bit down at this time of year, but I remind myself each day that we are 24 hours closer to the shortest day of the year. After that, every day offers more daylight than the previous one. It sounds silly, but I find it helps to look forward in that way. Sending bright and warm wishes your way. - Lori (Team Member)

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