Winter means it looks dark enough to be midnight at 5 pm, and we’re all pining for the sunshine and warm weather again. Winter also means we need to take better care of ourselves, both physically and mentally.
The Manchester Evening News reports that the NHS and other health organisations are highlighting the importance of self-care during winter, which all starts at home. By giving yourself just a little TLC, you can feel happier, healthier, and ready to take on the world.
Here are some tips for winter self-care
Go outside
Brrrr…. No thank you, you might be thinking! It’s bitterly cold. But whether you’re going for a short walk in the park or a full-on outdoor cardio session, sunlight and the winter air will leave you feeling refreshed and recharged.
Keep a gratitude journal
There are many benefits to keeping a gratitude journal, especially when the winter blues settle in. Gratitude can improve your mood, your self-esteem, and your all-around positivity.
Hydrate your body
We don’t want to sound like a broken record, but drink more water! The winter air can dry out skin, use moisturiser to hydrate your skin from the outside, and drink plenty of water to hydrate from the inside!
Treat yo’self!
After a long day of shivering and sniffling, all you want when you get home is to feel warm and indulge in something sweet, such as a hot chocolate, which aside from tasting delicious and warming you up, actually has some fantastic health benefits!
Light it up
With the hours of daylight severely reduced (although spring is coming!), the winter months can cause people to experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a condition that mimics the symptoms of depression due to lack of sunlight and vitamin D. To combat SAD, try taking a vitamin D supplement, or trying light therapy.
Move your body
Exercise is important all year round, and especially so in winter. Exercising in colder temperatures will burn more calories too! But if going outside to exercise does not sound appealing when gales are whipping up freezing rain, you can always exercise indoors. There are so many indoor workouts you can do in your living room!
Take a bubble bath
Take time to sit and soak in a luxuriously bubbled bath with a book, a glass of wine, and some candles. Maybe even schedule it with the household so you can make sure you’re not disturbed. Add Epsom salt and some bubble bath, and just sit, relax, and allow your body to soak in the warm, cosy goodness.
Slow down
Winter brings the hustle of the holiday season and can add stress to your day. So, a few times a week, wrap yourself up in a blanket and just take ten or 15 minutes to wind down and simply be in the moment—this is a great way to reset your brain.
Surround yourself with good people
Humans are social animals, and we need good company, whether that’s family, close friends, or just your dogs. Prioritise some quality time to spend with those who bring you joy.
Pursue your passion
Whatever you’re interested in, whether it’s painting, music, or something else entirely, invest time in it. Winter can be a great time to pursue new hobbies and really discover the things that you enjoy.
A visit to a facial clinic is another great way to indulge in self-care, so if you’re looking for a million-dollar facial, book an appointment today!
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