Staving off the winter blues is more than just a matter of pulling on our favorite sweater (though that does help). The short days and cold temperatures can keep us from mentally and physically feeling our best—which in turn can impact our weight loss journeys.
Some people even write off the entire season as a missed opportunity to lose weight (but you don’t have to). Each season brings their unique joy, but focusing on our health and well-being should always be one of them. Get your seasonal self-care on with these tips:
Boost your immune system the natural way
You don’t have to buy a supplement to boost your immune system this season. Living an active and healthy lifestyle is the best way to support your health no matter the time of year.
Eat colorful fruits and vegetables to get essential vitamins and minerals all season long. They also contain antioxidants and flavonoids, anti-inflammatory nutrients that can help support your immune system.
Even though the holiday season is often a flurry of social events, try to minimize drinking alcohol (bonus points for trying a mocktail) and get enough sleep to help reduce your overall levels of stress—the enemy of your immune system.
Adopt a cozy mindset
We often look towards our Scandinavian neighbors for tips on surviving the winter, as they’re especially bad there. The Danish have a concept we could all benefit from hygge (pronounced hoo-gah).
Hygge is all about creating a cozy environment for when you are stuck inside. Think lit candles, soft blankets, warming (low-calorie) beverages, and intimate gatherings with family and friends. Creating a safe and comforting social and emotional environment can help promote self-care.
Embrace a “cozy” hobby—such as puzzles, houseplants, knitting/crocheting, journaling, or reading—so there’s something indoors you look forward to doing. These hobbies can also serve as necessary me-time for when you need some stress relief.
Go outside (even when it’s cold)
While those lucky enough to live in year-round warmer climates have fewer excuses to stay indoors, cold temperatures, winter weather, and even the bare trees can keep the rest of us from spending much time outside.
However, getting some outside time is important, especially in the winter when there’s less sunlight providing that natural vitamin D. And because the sun just isn’t in our favor this time of year, taking vitamin D supplements may also help you adjust to fewer hours of sunlight.
For your cold weather ventures, the right layers can change the game—merino wool is the preferred base layer for hikers. Dressing warmly and appropriately for the weather may even help you start to appreciate the chilly air and do some winter hiking of your own.
Get moving
If the cold weather makes you want to enter hibernation mode and spend the next few months wrapped in a blanket, you’re not alone. But staying still this winter is not the way to go. Staying consistent with your workout routine can not only keep you on track with weight loss, it may actually strengthen your immune system.
Going for a brisk winter walk is more than enough to get your immune system going. But if you need some heat to motivate yourself, consider trying some hot yoga or a spin class for a workout vacation in warmer temperatures.
The golden rule
Last, but certainly not least, continue to practice good pandemic-era hygiene habits like washing your hands often. If you can't wash your hands with soap and water be sure to carry hand sanitizer. Cleaning away these germs can help prevent you from getting ill—because nothing puts a halt to self-care like being sick in bed.
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