Does winter just stink for anyone else after the holidays? I love the build up to the holiday season, but after that I feel like life just turns into a gray blob starting in January. There are many people who find that cold weather impacts their sleep, fitness and overall mood and I am definitely one of those people. This phenomenon happens for a few scientific reasons — but there are ways to bring the sunshine back into your life during the colder months.
I tend to find myself in a winter funk this time of year. But I am not letting the weather and what is going on in the world impact my mood. It is my job to take control of how I am feeling and how I react to things.
Not only staying physically healthy during the colder months important, but also taking care of of your mind and mental health is equally important.
Here are a few tips I use to take care of myself during winter.
1. SPEND MORE TIME OUTSIDE
This may seem counterintuitive because it’s cold outside and y’all know that I do not like the cold weather! That being said, you can benefit from sunlight. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) impacts around 10 million Americans every winter. This depression type occurs most commonly when days become shorter. You have less time to spend outdoors and you’re exposed to less sunlight. This creates a downward mood shift.
Even though I actually despise cold weather, a little fresh air can do you good. A walk around the neighborhood or to a cafe allows you to move your body and breathe fresh air. This effort can help you push yourself to leave your house when you’d rather stay on the couch. Especially during a time where we are all spending more time at home. Take advantage of these little moments!
2. CREATE A PHYSICAL FITNESS CALENDAR
You can still learn how to stay healthy and fit during winter despite the weather. A calendar can help you stay motivated and organized as you pursue your goals — that way, you make sure to put your health first, even when you might not be in the mood. A tip I also use is to buy a new workout outfit. I just feel more motivated to move my body if I am in a cute workout outfit! Anyone else???
I started a new gym once moving home and have been LOVING it! Spenga has quickly turned into one of the best parts of my day, and in the first time in awhile, I am actually excited to work out! Spenga is an one hour class that involves spin, HIIT, and yoga. It is the perfect balance and I am really enjoying it! If any of my local people want to check it out and do a class with me let me know! Your first class is free!
3. LEAVE ROOM FOR SOCIAL INTERACTION
You and your friends should make an effort to see one another. If you already have a poor headspace, you don’t want to become lonely, too. A weekly/bi-weekly meetup would be a fantastic way to ensure your friend group stays connected. Covid may cause you to modify your plans — but that’s okay! Nowadays I think we have all become more adaptable! I have for sure. I have been freezing my booty off and enjoying some outdoor dining lately! Eating out and socializing is something that I really enjoy, and I am happy that I can do it safely!
In any case, you should aim to maintain those bonds even if you won’t see each other as often. They’ll be able to boost your spirits, and vice versa.
4. PRIORITIZE SELF-CARE ACTIVITIES
Try not to neglect yourself, either. It’s always important to prioritize self-care. It is important to be as kind to yourself as you are to others! Your mood will experience a lift. The possibilities are endless when you want to pamper yourself. Here are a few ideas for inspiration:
- Draw a warm bath and add a bath bomb
- Journal – just write! It can be anything – how you’re feeling, thoughts, dreams, just let your mind flow!
- Try a moisturizing face mask and under eye patches (we all need it in the colder weather!)
- Book a sauna session (this is something I want to do ASAP to warm up!)
- Watch your favorite movie and curl up with a blanket
- Try a new recipe
- Give yourself a manicure and a pedicure.
- Bake a dessert
- Read that book that has been on your bedside table since you could remember!
- Take care of an indoor plant
5. TRY TO PRACTICE MINDFULNESS
The doom and gloom that you experience during winter could happen because it’s a long season. For some people, it’s cold from October to March. That’s six months that you have to handle — and as a result, you might feel like it is never ending!
Wherever you are in the world, you should redirect your focus to everyday moments through mindfulness. Try to be as thankful as you can for each moment you encounter. Take deep breaths, it can help lower anxiety and help you re-focus and re-center.
If you are someone that loves winter, than you are thriving this time of year! But if you are anything like me, you are dying for spring! We can all survive this winter together with a few of these tips!
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