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How to avoid the winter blues

Winter has snuck up on us and now we are faced with shorter days, dropping temperatures and the prospect of catching the dreaded cold or flu that is going around. Many people also feel sad, low and tired during the winter months due to the lack of sunlight and vitamin D.

Here are 5 tips to avoid the winter blues and stay healthy.

Optimise Your Vitamin D Levels

Poor immunity, sadness and lack of motivation associated with the winter blues is often linked to low vitamin D levels. Vitamin D is produced by the body when we are exposed to sunlight and during winter the lack of sunshine diminishes our vitamin D levels. This vitamin is associated with healthy immunity and mood regulation among many other health benefits so having optimal vitamin D levels is important. During winter we should get our vitamin D levels checked and take a daily supplement if necessary. Focus on eating food that contains vitamin D such as fish, butter, egg yolk, milk and meat and getting sun exposure when possible.

Socialise

During the cold winter months there is a temptation to retreat into the house and not budge from your book and heater until spring arrives. Staying socially active is important to keep a positive mood even if it means just inviting friends over for a movie night, meeting a friend for coffee or going out for dinner with family.

Stay Active

During the winter motivation is low and the thought of putting on workout clothes and venturing outside or to the gym is not always appealing.  However, staying active during winter is an important way to release stress hormones, boost mood-enhancing endorphins, regulate appetite and boost immunity.  It may give you an added boost to exercise outdoors so you can enjoy some fresh air and sunshine.

Hydrate

Our body is composed of 2/3 water so keeping hydrated is one of the best things we can do for our health. Being hydrated keeps the mucus membranes moist which are essential for a healthy immune system and keeping germs at bay. Start each day with a glass of warm lemon water and try to drink 6-8 glasses of water a day. You can include herbal teas in this as it’s comforting to have warm drinks in winter.

Get Some Sleep

Lack of sleep and poor sleep quality can lead to depression, poor immunity, fatigue and lack of motivation. When we sleep the body releases human growth hormone which is responsible for repairing and rejuvenating cells. Proper sleep is also important for a strong immune system and balanced brain chemistry. To avoid insomnia limit the amount of caffeine and sugar you consume and sleep in a dark room with comfortable bedding and a cool temperature.

Sources

https://naturisimo.com/nmagazine/index.php/2016/10/10/healthy-winter-habits-you-should-get-into/
https://draxe.com/7-ways-to-beat-the-winter-blues/