The blanket of white may be attractive from the inside, but eventually the snow must be moved.  Heavy snowfall is not an invitation to suddenly start a strenuous exercise program. An estimated 1,200 people in the United States die each year of coronary artery disease during and after major snowfalls. Moving heavy snow can also place additional stress and strain on backs and joints. Shoveling can be made even more physically strenuous by cold air, which makes it harder to work and breathe. “People need to recognize that snow shoveling is a strenuous cardiovascular workout and they need to be... Read More

Are you done with winter? Are these long, dark and unnecessarily cold days giving you the Winter Blues? Well, have no fear. There is light at the end of the tunnel! Both figuratively and literally. You don’t need a doctor or scientist to tell you it can be hard to keep your spirits up after months of being stuck indoors, due to snow and cold temperatures. Even if you are an outdoorsy winter person, the shortened days and lack of sunshine can still have an impact on your psyche. By this time of the year, the number of Midwesterners who don’t want warmer days are definitely dwindling day by day.... Read More