It’s easy to find yourself in a winter slump at this time of year. Less daily hours of sunshine combined with rainy weather and chilly temperatures can make even those who see life through rose-coloured glasses feel like their mood is low and energy zapped.
Here are six ways to help get you out from under the duvet, take off your bed socks and carpe diem the hell out of the day.
Work up a sweat
From improving our energy levels to lowering our risk of cardiovascular disease and keeping our cholesterol levels in check, the benefits of exercise are countless. Arguably the most positive impact that exercise has is the one it has on the mind. Research shows that moving your body is one of the best things you can do if you have depression or anxiety, as it releases feel-good hormones called endorphins.
Take some time out for you each week
Between family time, work commitments and attending to the washing basket (that no matter what never ceases to stop growing), our lives are increasingly getting busier. You may constantly put others first, which is selfless and beautiful and at times even necessary, but it can also lead to exhaustion and feeling completely depleted this winter. In order to be the best employee, partner, mother and friend you can be, you need to be feeling your best. Schedule time in your diary for yourself – treat yourself to a massage, catch up with friends, binge watch a Netflix series or buy an expensive bottle of wine, whatever. Just remember, your wellbeing and happiness is important, too.
Get outside and get some fresh air every day
When you’re busy it’s tempting to skip your break at work and eat your lunch at your desk – but sitting in a grey office all day is enough to make anyone feel down. It’s important to take a break for yourself and get outside every day. The fresh air combined with vitamin D from the sunshine and being in nature will allow you to feel calmer, more inspired and happier.
Try meditating
With today’s modern meditating apps and local classes being held weekly, gone are the days of the stigma around meditation being only for those who sit crossed legged with a beard. Meditation is the practice of training your mind to be calm and focused. Studies have shown that meditation can actually change the structure of your brain, leading to improved cognitive abilities, reduction in stress levels and improvement in happiness.
Make sure you’re getting enough sleep
A good night’s sleep is just as, if not more important than a balanced diet and exercise for a healthy and happy mind and body. When we sleep we are allowing our brain and body to rest, restore and rejuvenate. Muscle growth, the repairing of tissue and assisting our immune system and memory also occurs when we’re getting our ZZZs. Make an effort to go to bed at a reasonable hour to wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle what the new day will bring.
Try new things
From enjoying your daily avocado on toast to going on your favorite beach walk, us, humans, are creatures of habit. But there’s a fine line between doing what you enjoy and finding yourself stuck in a life rut. Stepping out of your comfort zone, learning each day and challenging yourself will make your days, and ultimately your life, more exciting and filled with new adventures. Join a sports team, learn to surf (wetsuit necessary) or get into gardening – whatever it is, just do it.
Practice mindfulness
Too often we live in our minds, trapped in our thoughts that are often unnecessary or negative. When you’re feeling down, it can be even harder not to succumb to these circular thoughts. Mindfulness is the practice of being in the moment, taking time each day to metaphorically or literally stop and smell the roses, and reflect on all the good that is in front of us. Research has shown that mindfulness can lead to a more peaceful and happier mind. Practice it throughout the day by being thankful for any kindness that was shown to you, or feeling happy about personal achievement. Writing a daily gratitude journal or five good things about your day can also help you to slow down and appreciate each day.
Avril has just moved here to the sunny Bay of Plenty from Australia. She loves that you can buy fresh fruit from the side of the road but is still pretty set on calling jandals ‘thongs’. In her spare time, she enjoys going to the beach, eating cheese and drinking wine and being a mediocre (at best) gardener.