Author: Irene Pastore

Hello! I am a Personal Trainer, Yoga and Pilates Instructor who specializes in fitness after 50. My service is Live Streaming. Connect with me from anywhere in the world. I look forward to helping you achieve your health and fitness goals.

Understanding Frostbite: Causes and Prevention

January 16, 2025

What Is Frostbite?

The air temperature can fall below the freezing point of water at 32 degrees F. When this happens, the skin is susceptible to skin damage known as frostbite. Frostbite can lead to permanent damage.

What Body Parts Are Affected By Frostbite?

  • Hand and fingers
  • Face and nose
  • Feet and toes
  • Ears

Warning Signs of Frostbite

  • Stage One: the skin turns red to purple or lighter than your normal skin tone.
  • Stage Two: the skin may sting, swell, peel or blister. Medical attention may be needed.
  • Stage Three: the skin may turn black, or form blisters. It might be difficult to move the affected area. Stage Three requires immediate medical attention.

How To Prevent Frostbite

  • Avoid going outside, if possible.
  • Avoid long exposure to freezing temperatures.
  • Dress for the weather by wearing warm clothing including a hat, gloves, and thermal underclothing.
  • Cover nose and mouth with a warm scarf.

Exploring Mt. Washington: Weather Risks and Safety Tips

January 15, 2025

Today’s Weather On Mt. Washington Summit

  • Wind Speed 51 mph
  • Temperature -5.6 F
  • Wind Chill Temperature -39F

The Presidential Range is a mountain range located in the White Mountains in New Hampshire. Named for President George Washington, Mt. Washington is the tallest peak. It is known for its’ record-breaking wind speed.

Standing at an elevation of 6,289 ft. , Mt. Washington is considered one of the most treacherous mountains in the United States. The mountain is notorious for unpredictable and inclement weather.

If you’re planning to venture up Mt. Washington, be very prepared for what you’ll encounter on your journey.

The Importance of Wind Chill

Wind chill is how cold the outdoor temperature feels when the wind speed is factored in. At the base of the mountain the temperature may be 40 degrees F. As you increase elevation the wind speed increases and the temperature will feel colder.

Fatalities on Mt. Washington

There have been 176 known fatalities and missing persons within the Presidential Range, many of them were over 50 years old.

Links To Summit Weather and Wind Chill Calculator

Mt. Washington Observatory Current Summit Conditions www.mtwashington.org

Wind Chill Calculator www.weather.gov

Stay Safe: Tips for Dealing with Wind Chill and Cold Weather

January 14, 2025

Wind chill makes the outdoor temperature feel colder and more dangerous unless you’re prepared. The definition of wind chill is how cold the temperature feels when the wind speed is factored in.

For example, if the outdoor temperature is 31 degrees F and the wind speed is 12 mph, the temperature will feel like 21.5 degrees F.

Knowing the wind chill is also important for the safety of your dog.

Before heading out for winter activities check the temperature and the wind chill. Use the link below to access a free and easy online wind chill converter.

National Weather Service Wind Chill Calculator www.weather.gov

Health Benefits of Practicing Gratitude

December 23, 2024

Gratitude is a positive emotion during which you experience being appreciative for the good things in your life.

Spend some time over the holidays to practice gratitude. According to Harvard Health recent research has pointed to several health benefits of practicing gratitude on a daily basis.

Benefits of Gratitude

  • Emotional and social well-being.
  • Better sleep quality.
  • Lower depression risks.
  • Favorable markers of cardiovascular health.
  • Possibility of life extension.

Read 7 Ways To Improve Your Health by Practicing Gratitude at ClevelandClinic.org.