What to do in January

January aptly is named for the Roman god of beginnings and endings, of looking both forward and back. In our climate, it’s the perfect time of year for introspection, time to stare into whirling snow (or more likely, endless drizzle) or a crackling fire, and ponder how to make the most of the coming year. For now, let’s talk about how to make the most of January!

Keep limber

Does the cold make your joints extra creaky? Look for bright, antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables to ease inflammation, choose omega-3 rich foods like wild salmon and chia seeds, and make sure to keep hydrated. Dietary supplements that include chondroitan or MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) also can help improve joint function and ease arthritis pain. You’ll find these and other supplements in our health and body care department.

Now in season

Revive your taste buds and spirits with fragrant, juicy citrus, like our ruby red Rio Star grapefruit, grown by Dennis and Lynda Holbrook of South Tex Organics. This pleasingly plump fruit is replete with vitamin C and also offers dietary fiber, vitamin A, potassium and folate. Slice one open and inhale its zest for an instant pick-me-up. Add juicy sections to your next salad, or drizzle honey over half a grapefruit and broil until bubbly for a delightful dessert.

Relieve muscle pain

Before you hit the slopes or snowshoe trails, stock up on balms, ointments and rubs to gently warm tired muscles, from Tiger Balm (which has been used for for than 100 years) to all-natural sore muscle rubs from Badger and local producer Moon Valley. For quick relief, try a soothing spray like Herbal Cool Muscle Spray from Elemental Herbs or J.R. Watkins Pain Relieving Liniment Spray. For a good, relaxing soak, try Aches & Pain Relief Bath Salts from Seattle-based Shepard Moon Concoctions.

Last chance for Satsuma Mandarin oranges.

The organic gems we offer at PCC hail from Johansen Ranch in Orland, Calif. Bursting with flavor, each orange offers heart-healthy vitamin C and helps boost immunity during cold and flu season. A recent U.S. Department of Agriculture study also found California Satsumas contain a high amount of synephrine, a natural antihistamine that helps relieve cold and allergy symptoms.

Celebrate National Hot Pastrami Sandwich Day!

Sink your teeth into some of our certified organic, 100-percent grass-fed beef pastrami from Eel River Organic Beef on Jan. 14. The rest of the month is packed with even more food holidays, from National Bean Day on Jan. 6 to National Chocolate Cake Day on Jan. 27. It’s also National Oatmeal Month, so don’t miss our All About Oats feature.