In case you woke up today, wondering what day of what month it is, here’s a big reveal: it’s only two weeks till winter! Crazy, right. The season change has caught us all by surprise this year, no wonder you’re now feeling… well, a little unprepared. Here are some things and ideas to keep you healthy and happy this winter.
Vitamins
A balanced diet is essential all year round. But winter can knock anyone of their feet. We recently shared a few tips to boost your immunity system – now it’s time to move into action. Eat seasonal, generously dress your salads with lemon or lime juice, introduce stews into your diet or try one of these amazing local detoxes.
Socialising
Did you know that according to research published in the European Heart Journal, lack of social interaction can be as bad for your health as smoking? And we basically just had two months of a chain-smoking experience. Start getting back to normal human connections (while keeping your distance, of course) – talk to the barista, catch up with your friends, volunteer. Winter can be quite lonely and you don’t need any more loneliness in your life.
Positive thinking
Here’s the thing: positivity is not a personality trait… one either has or doesn’t have it. It’s a skill. And any skill can be learned. Practise positive thinking to improve the brain chemicals that lead to an overall happier mood. We mean, come on, you’ve just punched the worldwide pandemic in the face, you totally deserve some happiness!
Workouts
Exercising releases endorphins, also known as ‘happiness hormones’. And, of course, it helps to stay strong and healthy. When it’s too cold outside to drive to a gym, there is always sex – an amazing indoor physical activity, is it not?
Tan
Bring the vacay vibes home! A soft and beautiful light tan boosts energy and self-love like nothing else. We love Bondi Sands Aero Liquid Gold that creates a long-lasting, deep golden glow with literally zero to no effort on your side.
Laughs
A good laugh decreases stress hormones in your body and relieves physical tension, leaving your muscles relaxed for up to 45 minutes after. It also increases immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies, improving your resistance to a winter cold. How about bingeing on one of these ridiculously funny TV shows?
New skincare routine
The weather change in New Zealand might be not as extreme as it is in many other countries but it doesn’t mean the same old face cream will keep your skin glowing all year round. Add dry-skin brushing to your winter skincare routine to remove any dead skin cells and open up your pores. Invest in night-time products, rich oils and deeply nourishing face masks. And don’t forget to take special care of your lips and hands – they suffer the most in winter!
Candles
Candles are an essential part of ‘hygge’ – the Danish on-trend movement based on comfort and well-being. Apparently, candlelight reminds us of those magical sunset and sunrise hours, when everything in the world seems to be just a touch better than it normally is. It’s soothing, soft and warm – exactly what we all need right now.
Little pleasures
Home-made biscuits or hot chocolate – no matter what your favourite sweet treat is, allow yourself a bit more of it in winter. Curling up with a book and munching on something sweet is the ultimate definition of happiness.