The colder months can be physically and mentally challenging, and you can take steps to boost your wellness. Beat the chill by thinking ahead and formulating a game plan for feeling and looking your best all year round. A few easy steps can lift your mood and your energy level. Valuing your health can help you to be a better friend, coworker, and partner. Consider adding the following ideas to your winter wellness plan.
- Try Aromatherapy
Scents in your environment can shape your experience in positive ways. Use Young Living Essential Oils to foster a sense of calm and clarity. Extend the effects of the scent by using a diffuser in your home. Enjoy the high-quality scents of vetiver, peppermint, cedarwood, lemon, or lavender. You can easily tailor the scents to meet your unique needs.
- Create a Cozy Space
Warm and inviting spaces are optimal for restorative wintertime rest. Think about cozy textures, soothing colors, soft lighting, and other modifiable factors. Use blankets, pillows, and candles to create an evening nest. Turn off overhead lights when your working day is done and switch on gentle table lamps. Consider setting an hour or two aside each day to unplug and read, craft, play music, solve a puzzle, or engage in other offline hobbies.
- Prioritize Good Sleep
There is no substitute for good sleep, especially during the winter months. Sleep plays a large part in focus, mood, fitness, and longevity. Practicing consistent sleep hygiene can protect your important slumber hours. Move away from electronic screens at least an hour before bedtime, limit caffeine in the afternoon, keep your bedroom cool, and be mindful of your first wakeful moments. A sunrise alarm creates a gradual increase of light in the room to wake you in the most neutral way possible. This can be especially helpful for otherwise dark mornings.
- Get Outside Early
Exposure to natural sunlight in the morning is great for your physical and mental health. Sunlight helps to stimulate the body’s circadian rhythms and contributes to increased focus. Go outside to walk your dog or take a stroll around the local park. Connecting to nature and having morning interactions in the neighborhood can be grounding.
- Balance Your Nutrition
It is easy to lean into heavy comfort foods around the colder months and holidays. This is fine in moderation and it is great to enjoy your food. Try to balance your nutrition by adding in more fresh vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and sources of protein. Weekly meal planning and homemade freezer meal preparation can support a buddy lifestyle. Learn to cook new recipes and try more balanced versions of your old favorites. Talk to your doctor about adding a daily multivitamin or vitamin D supplement if you live in a particularly wintery climate.
- Drink Lots of Water
When the indoor heating systems turn on, the environment can become very dry. Drink plenty of water to feel and look your best. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water each day and avoid highly processed beverages. Carry a large water bottle in your bag or vehicle so that you can sip along the way.
- Adjust Your Skincare
Skincare should be adjusted for the seasons as the temperature, quality of sunlight, and humidity levels change. Winter skincare revolves around using a good moisturizer and adding serums like vitamin C. Remember to wear a daily facial sunscreen even as the temperature goes down, and the winter sun can also impact your skin over time. Keep lip balm and hand cream around, too.
- Set a Workout Routine
A structured workout routine can help you to stay on track and meet your fitness goals. Think about walking or running outside for a certain amount of time each day, or head inside and use a gym. You should talk to a gym trainer about creating a weight-lifting plan and improving your core strength. You can also complete pilates or yoga workouts at home.
- Jump Into New Activities
Try new activities like indoor rock climbing or an artist workshop as a way to think outside the box when the weather turns chilly. This can be highly beneficial for mental health.
- Explore Your Style
Embrace winter-style options and have fun with cute sweaters, colorful coats, and warm accessories. Developing a personal style for cold weather can help you to retain a sense of identity and increase body positivity. You may even learn to knit your hat and scarf!
Be empowered and make healthy choices to feel energized and inspired at any time of the year.