How To Survive the Winter Blues - Part II
As the colder months draw near, for those of us in the northern hemisphere, it’s not uncommon for us to experience winter blues, or SAD from time to time. This is the second part of a series of three, with ideas to bring into your daily routine to offer additional support to see you through the colder months. If you missed part one you can access it here. The next four ideas to help ride the winter waves:
5. Hydrate. Hydrate, hydrate. Most of us are dehydrated, fact. On the whole, we don’t drink nearly half as much hydrating liquid as our bodies really need, and in the winter we tend to drink less as we feel colder, or we opt for hot liquids (coffee and hot chocolate) over water. However, when you are amply hydrated it can be the simple remedy to many ailments.
Hydration can counteract the thought that of being hungry - when actually we are just thirsty. If you think you’re hungry, try a glass of water first, notice what happens. Ample hydration can soothe headaches, sinus issues, moodiness, snappiness, lethargy, and help your body carry out unwanted toxins. Not to mention, your skin will glow - for those of you after that dewy look, rehydration will help.
Choose to rehydrate with something like organic coconut water or lemon water (add lemon juice to your water, or squeeze a lemon into your water, or add a washed lemon slice.) If you add the pre-squeezed version make sure it’s 100% lemon juice without anything added. Surprisingly these are very hydrating for the body - more so than just water. So if you’re needing a bit of taste in your water opt for these. You can also do hot water with lemon too if you’re needing that extra warmth. A large glass of lemon water on waking in the morning gets your engines firing and starts the day well, promoting your body to be ready and helps it rehydrate after the night. Go for 2-3 liters a day if you can… although, we know that probably seems like huge amounts, so work up to it. As you become aware of what you’re drinking you’ll get the sense of whether you need to bring in more hydrating liquids. A quick we use, look at your palms and the tips or your fingers, are they looking a little wrinkled? Almost like you’ve just hopped out of being in a bath for too long. If so, you’re dehydrated.
6. Find Natural Light. If you’re able to hot desk and sit near a window spend more time near the window. Rearrange your office so your desk is near the window, opt to sit in another room, change up your routine to get more daylight.
With reduced daylight hours our bodies benefit from having any amount of daylight we can give it.
If you do sit by the window, have a throw nearby to keep you cosy and draft free. This throw from Love Your Melon is one option that will not only keep you stylishly warm draped over your shoulders but you’ll also be supporting children fighting cancer.
If you can’t get a window seat give yourself the gift of a daylight lamp, there are so many out there. If you’re looking for an economical version we found these photography lamps work wonders (although don’t forget to switch off as soon as the daylight starts to go or you impact your circadian rhythm further and that can affect your sleep. If you’re looking for a splurge here’s a Dyson Lightcycle lamp to give you the full range of light throughout the day and night for your environment.
Many of us have heard about the impact screen time has on us late at night, so become aware of your patterns of when you use your smart phone, TV, or computer screen. It’s not always practical for us to simply not access them during the evening, but small steps can help you - finding ways to reduce screen time slightly can have huge shifts, as well as add a slightly yellow hue or warm tone to the screens you’re using, switch from reading a book on tablet to a paper version at night, and switch the TV off an hour before you go to bed, and resist the urge to have a TV in your bedroom! (We know that’s a hard one for many of you).
7. Sleep Peacefully. Insomnia can become more acute during winter months so consider switching up your routine so inspire and lull your body into dreamy sleep.
Reduce your alcohol intake.
Eat dinner earlier than you have been doing and choose not to eat past 7pm.
Opt for an epsom salt bath.
Play some relaxing music.
Add a candle or two (but don’t forget to blow them out!).
Switch on a himalayan salt lamp to give your room a lovely warm glow.
Choose a good book and go old school - no screen time.
Enjoy a cup of sleep tea.
Spritz your room with This Works deep sleep pillow spray.
Start writing, grab a notebook and scribble a conscious stream of thoughts to release them from the day, and finish up with 3 things you are grateful for in the day.
Snuggle down in bed with a dimmable sleep lamp.
Play yourself a sleep story - we love the ones on the Calm app, and with over 60 different narrators you’re bound to find a voice you love.
If you have any light pollution coming into your bedroom and you don’t have the option for blackout blinds or curtains, a silk sleep eye mask can work wonders.
If noise pollution is a problem these noise cancelling air pods from QuietOn we spotted could be just your ticket.
8. Stock Up On Treats. Yes we said that, this is the fun one. Stock pile treats that will fuel your body with energy and vitality. When you have on-hand easy snacks to look forward to its much easier to keep unhealthy habits at bay and resist the temptation of processed sugars or carbs, or last minute treats that you give you a momentary pep in your step but then force your immune system to work harder. Since it’s the beginning of the season of lots of sweets and over indulgence the more balance you can bring into your life with planning the easier it is to ride the waves. Here are a few of our favorites:
What Now?
Having read these additional ideas, pick one (or all of them if that feels good to you) and introduce it into your routine this week. See how you get on with it. Notice what happens, how do you feel? What resistance comes up? Is it hard? That’s ok, it means you’re growing and evolving yourself into a new state. Changes in our routines can take time, and they feel uncomfortable to begin with. It’s also important to note that sometimes you won’t notice anything immediately, what you’re doing is changing your state to ride the winter months, by doing this you are supporting your body to function optimally. Remind yourself why you’re doing this - to move through the winter feeling and being as healthy and as vibrant as you can and to treat your body gently with kindness and thoughtfulness.
Until next week, have a wonderful thanksgiving and a very happy and joyful time with family, friends, or however you choose to mark the day. We are grateful for you.
Check back next Tuesday for further tips on beating the winter blues…
Please note these are not medically advised guidelines, or paid for product recommendations, they are inspirations and ideas we have established through practice, observations, use, and or conversations. As always, we recommend you trust your own instincts, conduct your own research, and if you feel you need or want medical advice seek that. Step forward gently, release fear, trust your instincts, and go with love. We wish you well.
