Like the Earth, our bodies and minds naturally graviate towards restoration and an overall slower pace of life during the winter months. During the winter season, many of us tend to retreat indoors and don't leave until springtime. It's no wonder 3 million Americans experience bouts of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). This year, don't let the winter season get you down. Here are seven simple self-care tips to help you beat the winter blues naturally.
#1 Be Happy Hibernating
The festive holiday season has just come to an end. Many of us may have given our best to others since Thanksgiving, so now it’s time to give back to ourselves. Give yourself a break to indulge in some self-care practices and relax this winter. By embracing moments of rest, you are truly honoring the theme of the winter season. Your body and mind will thank you, plus you will have more energy come spring.
#2 Drink Warm Beverages
It’s easy to stay hydrated during the hot summer months when temperatures and humidity levels are high, but staying hydrated during the bitter cold winter months can prove challenging. Instead of reaching for chilled water, try sipping on warm liquids throughout the day. Sip on a cup of tea, make a mug of homemade bone broth or whip up a batch of your favorite winter soup.
#3 Engage in Self-Reflection
While you snuggle inside and enjoy moments of winter hibernation, get centered and take some time for self-reflection. Look inward towards yourself and make some time to take an inventory of where you presently find yourself physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. You may even consider using the slower winter months to adopt a daily meditation practice, which can help increase your awareness, energy, focus and patience as we transition into the warmer months of spring and summer.
#4 Enjoy More Mindful Foods
Our bodies crave hearty foods when it's cold outside, so discover recipes that provide both nourishment and comfort. Focus not only on feeding your body, but also feeding your soul. This will not only provide sustenance for your body, but internal warmth and satisfaction.
Tip: Instead of braving the brutally cold temperatures and bone chilling winter winds, host a hygge inspired potluck dinner with family, friends and neighbors.
#5 Follow the Light
Even though our exposure to natural light is limited during the winter months, embrace natural light as much as you can, especially first thing in the morning. Exposure to natural sunlight signals the start of the day to your body, essentially energizing and preparing you for the day ahead. You may even consider moving your evening workout to earlier in the day so you can see the light - literally.
Tip: Invest in an infrared light for your home or warm up and try an infrared sauna at your local spa to warm up this winter.
#6 Get Active
Besides changing the time of day you workout, you may want to consider changing up your workout routine. Embrace lower impact activities that more fully align with the slow, restorative pace of the winter months. Activities like stretching, walking and yoga are all good options. Don’t be afraid to head outdoors either. Just a few minutes of walking in nature and taking in a deep breath of the crisp winter air can boost energy levels, mood and overall well-being.
#7 Savor the Season
Winter only comes around once a season, so embrace all that it has to offer. Each season is different and offers a unique set of opportunities so enjoy this time with loved ones, and most importantly, yourself.
This year, don’t let the winter blues get you down. Instead, incorporate these seven simple self-care tips perfect for the winter season.
Tag us @SimpleMills and show us how you beat the winter blues naturally with your favorite self-care practices.