Now that the days are becoming colder and the nights are drawing closer, it may feel inevitable to experience a case of the winter blues. But fear not! We have some stellar solutions to help you survive the winter unscathed.
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Embark on a Health Kick
Whilst being healthy is important year-round, during the winter months you’re 80% more susceptible to catching a cold or the flu. Rev up your immune system by ensuring that you increase your intake of fruit and vegetables to consume all the vitamins and minerals required to combat any nasty bugs or viruses. Eliminate your sleep debt and have a good night’s sleep, in fact, studies have shown that sleep deprivation mirrors the same effects physical stress have on the immune system. So make sure you have at least seven hours sleep each night. Although getting out of your warm and cosy bed first thing in the morning may seem a bleak prospect, keeping active is the key to keeping colds at bay. Layer up, find an exercise buddy and mix up your exercise routine to stay motivated.
Go Outside
Sunlight is one of the best ways to improve your mood and energy levels so go outside to get a boost of vitamin D. Have a brisk walk during your lunch break, do a spot of gardening or if the weather’s right, participate in winter sports. Being active outdoors provide many benefits such as reducing stress, burning more calories and even improving concentration levels, focus and memory. So, no more excuses, wrap up warm and wander outside.
Relax and Unwind
At last, a legitimate excuse for those after-work drinks! Socialising with friends is a brilliant way to alleviate stress so be certain to make time to meet up with your nearest and dearest. Take advantage of the cold weather outside by treating yourself to a hot bath. A bath is not only a great way to unwind but it is also a brilliant sleep-aid so you will kill two birds with one stone. Clear your schedule of any unnecessary commitments to allow yourself time to clear your mind. Use it to properly pamper yourself and seize the opportunity to do something you’ve always wanted to do!
Have a Goal
Does your kitchen need redecorating? Is there a cause you want to get involved in? A new hobby you want to take up? You can obtain some valuable skills to add to your professional calibre and pass time enjoying yourself. Having a goal in mind also increases focus and drive, both of which are beneficial in your professional and personal life. So what are you waiting for? Set yourself some goals during the winter to keep yourself inspired and spring will come sooner than you think!
Embrace Winter
Think about all the winter activities you can be doing rather than wishing your time away until spring. Nothing beats cooking up a storm in the kitchen or warming up with a glass of mulled wine! If you’re lucky enough to have snow, take advantage of it to go sledding, skiing, ice-skating – there are plenty of opportunities to make the most of the winter weather! The best way to keep the winter blues at bay is to live in the here and now, therefore go out and enjoy the joys of winter!
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