Colder temperatures, time spent indoors, and shorter days, all of these factors combined, can easily cause your body to go into hibernation and feel too cozy. If you experience this in Seattle during winter, you’ll likely find it quite comfortable.
But what you might not know is that slowly (but surely) your pelvic health might be deteriorating. This can lead to muscle stiffness and body tension, requiring your pelvic muscles to reset. Today, we discuss the impact of cold weather on pelvic health and why pelvic floor therapy in Seattle is necessary.
Why Winter Hibernation Impacts Pelvic Floor Health
Here are some reasons why your body can hibernate during the winter.
Reduced Movement and Tightened Pelvic Muscles
During cold, rainy days in Seattle, residents prefer staying indoors rather than working out or running errands. This lack of activity can lead to tightness in the hips, hamstrings, and lower back, which can directly affect pelvic floor health.
Seasonal Stress and Pelvic Tension
Longer work hours (which usually mean extended periods of sitting) and reduced sunlight can cause muscles to clench. This can prompt the pelvic floor to respond, leading to urinary symptoms.
Postural Changes from Staying Indoors
Slouching on the couch, working at makeshift desks, or exercising less can weaken the core. When the core isn’t stable, the pelvic floor compensates, often becoming overworked or fatigued.
How Pelvic Floor Therapy Helps You “Reawaken” After Winter
Now, here’s how pelvic floor therapy can prevent unwanted physical conditions during winter.
Restoring Mobility to Tight Pelvic Muscles
Targeted stretching and guided movement, usually by a professional therapist, release the tightness in the hips, glutes, and deep pelvic muscles.
Rebuilding Core and Pelvic Floor Coordination
Inactivity during winter months can disrupt the body’s usual muscle coordination, so therapy retrains the pelvic floor by improving stability and reducing strain.
Breathwork to Reduce Pelvic Tension
The diaphragm and pelvic floor work as a unit. During winter stress, shallow breathing becomes more common. Pelvic floor therapy teaches restorative breathing patterns that reduce muscle guarding and tension.
Improving Posture After a Sedentary Season
A professional therapist can help correct your posture from all the time spent indoors, without much physical activity. This includes realigning the spine, hips, and core to reduce pressure on the pelvic floor.
At-Home Exercises to Ease Out of Winter Hibernation
Here are some basic exercises you can try at home during winter.
Gentle Hip Mobility Routine
Slowly circling the hips and figure-four stretches can help loosen the hip muscles.
Pelvic Tilts and Core Activation
Reconnect the pelvis to the rib cage and reactivate the core.
Breathing Exercises
Diaphragmatic breathing helps relax tight pelvic floor muscles and reduce winter-induced tension.
If you are feeling the exercises are not providing the desired results, consult a reliable pelvic therapist.
Final Thoughts
Transitioning out of winter hibernation is the perfect time to focus on pelvic health. Now that you know the areas to focus on to regain full health, you can find a reliable name for pelvic floor therapy in Seattle that helps restore mobility, reduce tension. For professional, certified service, contact Life in Balance Physical Therapy & Pilates.
