As the winter months roll in, the chillier weather, shorter days, and holiday stress can take a toll on our physical and mental health. However, with a few mindful adjustments, you can keep yourself healthy, energized, and feeling your best throughout the colder season. Here are 11 self-care tips that will help you thrive this winter.
1. Prioritize Quality Sleep
Winter's shorter days naturally encourage us to sleep more, but it's important to focus on the quality of your rest. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night. To optimize your sleep:
- Stick to a consistent sleep schedule.
- Create a relaxing bedtime routine.
- Keep your bedroom cool—studies suggest that a temperature around 60-67°F (15-19°C) is optimal for sleep.
- Use temperature regulating sleepwear.
2. Stay Hydrated
It’s easy to forget about hydration when it’s cold outside, but dehydration can still be a problem in winter. Central heating can dry out your skin, leaving you feeling fatigued and dehydrated. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day, and consider adding warm herbal teas to keep yourself hydrated and cozy.
3. Moisturize Regularly
Winter air is dry and can leave your skin feeling rough and chapped. Combat this by incorporating moisturizing into your daily routine. Use a hydrating lotion or body oil right after you shower to lock in moisture. Don’t forget to use a good lip balm and hand cream too—these areas tend to suffer the most from dryness.
4. Dress for your best sleep
Boost your sleep quality and duration with the right sleepwear, keeping you comfortably warm without ever overheating. Look for breathable and lightweight material that helps your body temperature to regulate to avoid getting cold or sweating at night.
5. Get Sunlight or Supplement Vitamin D
Lack of sunlight in the winter months can leave you feeling sluggish and affect your mood due to lower vitamin D levels. If possible, try to spend at least 10-15 minutes outside during daylight hours to get natural sunlight. If you live in an area where sunlight is scarce, consider taking a vitamin D supplement, but consult your doctor first to ensure it’s the right fit for you.
6. Nourish Your Body with Comforting Foods
While it’s tempting to indulge in rich, heavy foods during the winter, it's essential to maintain a balanced diet filled with nourishing meals. Include seasonal vegetables like sweet potatoes, winter squash, and leafy greens. Warm soups and stews made with wholesome ingredients can be comforting while providing the nutrients your body needs to stay strong.
7. Move Your Body
It’s natural to feel less motivated to exercise when it's cold outside, but staying active is key to your mental and physical well-being. Incorporate gentle movement like yoga, stretching, or indoor walking routines. If you can brave the cold, bundle up and take a brisk walk to get fresh air and improve circulation.
8. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation
Winter can be a stressful time, especially with holidays and year-end pressures. Taking time to meditate or practice mindfulness can help you manage stress and stay grounded. Even just five minutes a day of deep breathing exercises or guided meditation can help clear your mind and promote a sense of calm.
9. Strengthen Your Immune System
Winter is flu season, so it's essential to take steps to boost your immune system. This includes eating a nutrient-dense diet, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest. You can also add immune-supporting supplements like vitamin C, zinc, and probiotics to your daily routine. Don’t forget to wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your face to reduce the risk of illness.
10. Use scents to enhance wellbeing
Did you know that scents can help us to fall asleep but also to really wake up in the morning? Our different sense have a powerful impact on our energy levels and mood. Functional fragrances are concentrated plant extracts used for their aromatic and therapeutic properties. They influence the nervous system primarily through the olfactory system, which is closely linked to the brain's limbic system.
11. Embrace Hygge for Mental Warmth
The Scandinavian concept of hygge emphasizes coziness, warmth, and well-being. Creating a peaceful, comfortable environment indoors can boost your mood during the darker winter months. Light candles, curl up with a good book, and enjoy the warmth of blankets or a crackling fire. Prioritizing comfort and relaxation can make winter feel more enjoyable and less like a chore.
INVEST IN YOUR SLEEP, INVEST IN YOURSELF
