Winter Wellness

I have been lurching from one ailment to another during the last three months and am currently in bed on antibiotics; the joys. I’ve had enough of feeling grotty and am determined to ditch the lurgy in favour of winter wellness.

How to feel well in the winter months

1. Physical activity can help boost your mood and energy levels. (I wish someone would tell our lazy dachshund this!)
2. During the winter months, the days are shorter, so it’s important to make the most of available sunlight.
3. Cold weather can make you feel sluggish, so it’s important to dress warmly and keep your home at a comfortable temperature. (I appreciate with rising energy costs this is very difficult at the moment)>
4. Eating a balanced diet can help keep your energy levels up and boost your overall health.
5. The shorter days and longer nights of winter can make you feel more isolated, so it’s important to stay in touch with friends and family and not just on Facebook.
6. It’s important to take care of your mental health during the winter months and seek help if you are experiencing symptoms of depression. (S.A.D. is common during the winter months).
7. Getting enough sleep is important for overall health and can help boost your mood and energy levels.
8. Engaging in activities that you enjoy can help you feel better during the winter months.

How to get sunlight in the winter months

1. Going for a walk during the daylight hours can help you get some natural sunlight.
2. Letting natural light into your home can help brighten your space and improve your mood.
3. If you spend a lot of time indoors, try to sit by a window during the daylight hours.
4. Light boxes or S.A.D. lamps can help.
5. If you work indoors during the day, try to take a break and get outside during your lunch hour.

It is important to wear S.P.F. year round.

How to practice selfcare during the winter months

1. Winter is a great time to enjoy warm soups, stews, and hot drinks like tea or hot chocolate.
2. A warm bath or shower can help to relax your muscles and improve your mood.
3. Yoga or meditation can help to reduce stress and improve your overall well-being.
4. Curling up with a good book can help you relax and escape from the stress of everyday life.
5. Listening to music can help to improve your mood and reduce stress.
6. Try to limit your use of electronic devices and spend more time offline.
7. Essential oils like lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus can help to improve your mood and reduce stress.
8. Exercise can help to boost your mood and energy levels, it can be as simple as going for a walk outside. (Weather allowing!)
9. Plan a night in with your loved ones, watch a movie, play games or cook together.
10. Treat yourself to a massage or spa treatment to relax and unwind.

Self-care looks different for everyone, and what works for one person may not work for another. It’s important to find what works for you and fits in with your routine.

Healthy Eating during winter

Here are a few tips for maintaining a healthy diet during the winter months:

1. Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables which can help to boost the immune system and improve overall health.
2. Incorporate healthy fats which can help to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression.
3. Eat protein which is essential for maintaining muscle mass and overall health.
4. Incorporate whole grains which are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
5. Stay hydrated: and help flush out toxins.

Winter Supplements

1. During the winter months, sunlight exposure is limited, and vitamin D levels can drop. Vitamin D supplements can help to maintain healthy levels.
2. Omega-3 fatty acids can help to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression.
3. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help to boost the immune system and prevent colds and flu.
4. Probiotics can help to improve gut health and boost the immune system.
5. Magnesium can help to reduce stress and improve sleep.
6. Melatonin can help to regulate the sleep-wake cycle and improve sleep.

How do you banish the lurgy during the winter months? I’d love to know.

Wishing you winter wellness and sending love.

Take care,

Charlotte x

If you’re concerned about keeping well over the winter months speak to your G.P. or click here for more advice.

To read all about GOPO Joint Health click here.