Keep Well this Winter
It can be hard to kick the seasonal slump and stay mentally and physically well throughout winter even without the new challenges we face this year starting off in a lockdown with a global pandemic. Christmas and New Year have passed, we’re a little short-changed and the weather is noticeably colder.
So here we provide you with our tried and tested top tips for looking after yourself this winter. Grab your favourite warming drink, give yourself five uninterrupted minutes, relax and read on…
Sleep!
The average adult needs around 7-9 hours’ sleep each night. Without it, our body struggles to repair itself, our immune system becomes weakened and we can become more emotional and responsive to stress. So try picking up a book instead of staring at screens an hour before bed, enable blue light blocking features on your phone, avoid caffeine post-lunch time and remove distractions from the room to enable some good quality shut eye.
Go wild
Make the most of something free, unpredictable and extraordinary – the great outdoors. We’re spoilt when it comes to stunning landscapes, historical sites and an abundance of wildlife here in the UK. There’s lots of research to show the positive effect spending time outdoors has on stress, anxiety and depression, plus working up a sweat is sure to get the mood-boosting endorphins flowing. So now is the perfect time to wrap up warm, head outside and explore all that’s beyond your doorstep, just stay local, for now.
Challenge yourself to something new
At the beginning of a new year, a lot of us have it in mind to hit the reset button, start afresh or start something new. This is the perfect time to learn a new skill or adopt a hobby. Not only are both of these great for personal development, it’s a chance to meet new people, build positive relationships and relish in the company of like-minded individuals. There are many online social groups, fitness clubs and creative classes going on during this time as companies adapt to the new norm so do some digging, you might be surprised what you find!
Be thankful for all that’s good
When you’re starting to feel a slump, take some time to consider the things you’re grateful for and the positive aspects of your life. Maybe keep a wellness journal or start a diary to get those positive and negative thoughts out of your mind and onto paper. It can be the little things you’re looking forward to, or the big events that have shaped who you are. Building a list of these things will not only reignite fond memories and improve your present mood; it will start the process of developing a new, positive mindset.