With a wet and chilly July behind us, many Australians are feeling aches and pains in their joints. According to the Department of Health and Aged Care, one in three Australians has a musculoskeletal condition that affects their joints and approximately 3.6 million Australians have arthritis with the numbers on the rise.

While we tend to feel arthritis flare up more in the wintertime, temperature is just one of the contributing factors. Recent research shows that a lack of vitamin D can exacerbate arthritic pain as well as people’s perception of the weather. When we experience pain or greater levels of pain, we tend to move less and decrease our amount of physical activity as our brain goes into ‘protection mode’. However, for those that suffer from arthritis, movement is key in relieving pain.

In general, during colder months, we tend to do less physical activity and spend more time indoors. The combination of these factors means less movement and exposure to natural light. Not only can this affect our joints, but it can also have an overall effect on our bodies, mood and mental health.

To get moving or stay moving, think about how physical movement makes you feel. In general, humans tend to feel pretty good after being outdoors and warming up their bodies. Not only does this alleviate joint pain, but it also boosts our mood and increases our energy levels, which tend to dip during winter. Create realistic goals for yourself. Perhaps this means a 20-minute walk each day, a slow-moving yoga class or stretch or a wander around the garden. At the end of each day, assess how you feel and slowly increase the distance or amount of movement you do.

You don’t have to live throughout the winter months in discomfort or pain. Look after your body and aim for a healthy dose of daily movement.