Why Getting Outside This Winter Is the Best Thing You Can Do for Your Body

Written By Robin McDaniel

Move better. Feel calmer. Enjoy the season.

Winter in Phoenix is a gift. While most of the country is slipping on ice or hiding from snowstorms, we get clear skies, soft sunshine, and temperatures that practically beg you to step outside.

If you’re feeling stiff, overwhelmed by the holiday pace, or “waiting for January” to move again… here’s your suggestion to just start!

1. Natural Light Regulates Your Nervous System

The combination of sunlight + fresh air is one of the strongest ways to reset your internal rhythms.

Getting outside can help:

  • Reduce holiday stress

  • Improve sleep quality

  • Boost serotonin

  • Calm an overactive nervous system

  • Ease tension in your neck, back, and jaw

Research says even 5–10 minutes a day makes a noticeable difference.

2. Outdoor Walking Gives You Joint-Friendly Movement

Walking outside challenges your body in ways a treadmill or gym can’t replicate:

  • Uneven terrain activates your ankles and hips

  • Hills build leg and glute strength

  • Natural scenery encourages longer, easier walks

  • Breathwork happens organically when you’re moving - it’s hard to hold your breath on a long walk

And the best part?
It takes no equipment and no willpower battle. You just step out the door.

3. Stress + Stillness = A Stiff Holiday Body

The holidays often come with:

  • More sitting

  • More driving

  • More screen time

  • More tension

Your body responds by tightening — especially your shoulders, neck, spine, hips, and pelvic floor.

Outdoor movement breaks that cycle.
Even a slow walk acts like a full-body “reset button” for stiffness and stress.

4. Small Outdoor Habits Stick Better Than Big January Plans

Studies show that movement habits built during low-pressure seasons are more likely to stick long-term.

So instead of waiting for January’s big energy, try small outdoor wins:

  • A walk during sunset

  • A loop around the block after dinner

  • A trail stroll on the weekend

  • Doing your “December Movement Challenge” outside

These little moments build momentum — not guilt.

How to Start (Even If You’re Busy)

Try one of these this week:

  • 5-minute morning walk before opening your email

    • If you don’t have 5 minutes for yourself, let’s chat about how we can make YOU a priority :)

  • Sunset stroll when the sky turns cotton-candy pink

  • Take your December Movement Challenge outdoors

  • Walk-and-talk phone call with a friend

  • Take your holiday guests shopping or to a park! They came to get out of their miserable weather and into ours - show it off!

Want Help Building a Simple Winter Movement Plan?

If you're dealing with stiffness, back pain, balance issues, or want accountability through the holidays, let me know! I’d be happy to help.

Robin McDaniel
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