Are you feeling mentally and physically exhausted? Do you have a hard time getting out of bed in the morning and staying motivated all the way until bedtime? The winter blues, also known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), are likely to blame for your current state of mind. The short, dark days have a depressing effect on our minds and bodies, making us lethargic, unfocused, and sad. These next suggestions, however, will show you how to get through the holiday season without losing your mind.
Start The Day With A Good Breakfast
Experts say that you should get about 20 percent of the calories you need for the day at breakfast. So, instead of a pastry croissant in the morning, try a whole wheat biscuit or a spinach smoothie. You’ll want these crucial calories to be healthy and filling, not sugary, as sugar can quickly raise and lower your blood sugar, affecting your mood and making you more irritable.
Find A Winter Hobby
Having a winter hobby keeps your mind busy and gives you a lot of pleasure. Knitting is a good example of a winter activity that can keep you from thinking about negative things. Give it a try while you’re catching up on your Netflix shows. If you don’t want to knit, you can get the same benefits from yoga or mindfulness meditation or perhaps building a Pinewood Derby car if that is more your scene.
Drink ‘Golden Milk’
Scientists have shown that some spices can give you more energy and make you feel better. One of them is turmeric, which you can use to make a tasty drink called Golden Milk. Just heat up a cup of rice milk and add a pinch of turmeric, a sprinkle of black pepper, and a spoonful of meadow honey. Stir well and relish your drink while you take some time to relax.
Avoid Junk Food
When the days get shorter and the weather gets colder, many people associate that with staying inside and binge-watching their favorite show on Netflix while eating a slice (or two) of fully loaded pizza or snacking on popcorn and chips or chocolate. However, winter’s shorter days and chillier temperatures should instead inspire a commitment to eating well. Consuming foods rich in vitamins and minerals can help you maintain your strength and optimism, helping you feel better if you normally feel down.
Take A Cold Shower
A cold shower can help chase away the winter blues even if it’s below freezing outside. The trick is to switch from the hot to the cold jet so that your microcirculation is stimulated and your energy levels are restored. The Kneipp method, as it is called, is widely practiced at spas and wellness centers.
Walk More
When temperatures drop below freezing, who goes for a walk? The answer is you, or at least you should. The endorphins you get from going for a walk in the cold weather can help you fight mental burnout, which may sound a little strange, but it’s true. Additionally, walking is good for your body and mind, and will make you feel better about indulging in that croissant, and will earn you a cup of hot cocoa later on in the day.
