When fall turns to winter, the snowy season brings with it its own unique set of challenges when it comes to self-care. Although we all like to think we take good care of our mind, body and soul, certain areas can sometimes be left neglected.
With the colder weather comes shorter days, dry skin, seasonal depression, end of semester stress, overwhelm with the holidays and more. It can be a lot, so it’s important to remember to devote extra time and consciousness to self-care in order to combat your winter blues.
By giving your mind and body the attention it needs during the winter season, it will help you adapt and embrace new opportunities. But dedicating entire days to self-care or hopping on a plane to a tropical destination isn’t exactly practical. Taking half an hour per day or even just 10-15 minutes to focus on self-care will work wonders.
Here are a few self-care practices to help you get through the winter weather.
Eat foods that energize you
What you put inside your body is perhaps one of the most important forms of self-care. Adding healthy, clean foods to your diet will provide you with much more energy than “comfort” foods. I know it’s tough to do with all the holiday baking going around, but be sure to get your veggies in too. Your body will be left feeling bright and vibrant, making the weather outside seem not so dreary after all.
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!
By now, it’s no secret that our skin takes the bulk of our stress and neglect. Being our largest organ, our skin acts as a visual map of what’s happening inside our bodies. For example, eating poorly or dealing with extra stress at work can lead to more breakouts than normal. That, combined with the colder, dryer weather is a recipe for a skin disaster. Make the time to take care of your skin and don’t forget moisturizer is your best friend during winter.
De-clutter your home
Yes, organization is a form of self-care. An organized home is a happy home because, for most people, clutter can weigh one down without even realizing it. So get rid of the excess; rid yourself of whatever no longer serves you, grows you or makes you happy. Keeping your space clean will keep you grounded and you won’t feel overwhelmed by unnecessary messes each time you come home.
Don’t forget fitness
During the winter months, finding the motivation to work out seems even more difficult. Not only is working out outdoors unavailable because of the cold temperatures, but it’s hard to want to work out when it’s already dark by 5 p.m. But to keep from feeling lethargic, even just a bit of fitness can uplift your entire mood. Try a new fitness class or do yoga with your girlfriends. Even if it’s just a 20-minute at-home workout, you’ll feel better that you did it.
Remember your vitamins
While seasonal affective disorder (SAD) can be a serious issue for some, and professional help might be necessary, it’s not uncommon to feel a little blue when the days are grey. This can impact not only our mood but our energy levels, social lives and nutritional choices as well. But taking a daily multivitamin can help. A multivitamin can do so many things like improving digestion, strengthen teeth and bones, reduce anxiety, support your liver and more – all while addressing your mood too.
Stay hydrated
Hydration is the key to everything. Tired? Drink some water. Bloated? Drink some water. Dry skin? Drink some water. In the cooler months, it is natural not to feel as thirsty, but it’s still essential to keep hydrated. Staying hydrated can keep you energized and thus boost your mood, so drink up!
Read a book you enjoy
It seems silly to say, but make time to sit down and read a really good book. Between work or school, you’re busy and you probably spend most of your time reading stuff that isn’t for leisure. So be sure to find the time – maybe even just 10 minutes before bed – to unplug, destress and dive into a great novel.
How do you take care of yourself this winter season? Let us know in the comments!
Featured image: Instagram/ @chaptersindigo
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