The long winter months can be a challenging time when it comes to your physical and mental health. While some people don’t mind this time of year, the colder months can be difficult for a lot of people. Effective self-care practices to get you through the colder months can make all the difference in how well you feel as the months progress.
It is important to be extra kind to yourself and create more opportunities to relax your body and mind during this season. Choose a few self-care strategies to that work for you, get cosy and take time to unwind.
Here are some of my favourite self care practices.
- Bath time bliss
Picture the scene. A luxurious soak with your favourite bath oil or bath bomb. Dim the lights and light up your favourite scented candle. This is a simple way to recharge and pamper yourself during the cold-weather. Warm baths can help melt the day away and relax tense muscles and are an easy, accessible way to get some much needed self care in.
- Movement is Medicine
Wrap up warm and embrace walks in nature and the great outdoors. Going outside may be the last thing you feel like doing on a cold, miserable day, but during this season it’s important to get as much natural light as possible to boost your mood. When you exercise or move in any way shape or form, your body releases the “happy hormone” named endorphins that can help relieve stress and raise energy levels.
- Get creative in the kitchen
Now is the perfect time to try some new recipes. Use nutritious and a colourful range of seasonal vegetables to create hearty soups or casseroles to enjoy. Or if you are feeling indulgent, why not whip up some tasty homemade treats such as cookies, cakes or home made bakes.
- Write down one good thing per day
One of my favourite quotes is “Everyday may not be good but there is something good in everyday”. Aim to practice gratitude daily by putting pen to paper and writing down one good thing a day. This simple yet effective activity is a daily visual reminder of the positive aspects of your life.
- Rest and Recuperate
To avoid feeling tired and sluggish during this time, aim to get your 8 hours of sleep. Top tip: If possible, make your bedroom a tech free zone to improve your quality of sleep. Instead of scrolling on your phone, try reading from a book to help you drift off into a peaceful slumber. I also am partial to taking naps here and there and I don’t feel guilty about them as they increase my productivity levels. Aim to remove the guilt of resting and taking breaks here and there. Its not laziness. It is your body and minds way of recuperating and recharging.
Remember you can’t pour from an empty cup. Self-care isn’t selfish, its essential.
Annette Kelly x
