Although it is always important to take care of yourself, it is CRUCIAL during the cold months! As these cold months approach, it is almost inevitable that our body feels the shift with the weather. Because of this, it is always a good idea to be ahead and create a game plan for how you will stay consistent for yourself and your health. Here are some ideas on caring for yourself as the cold months near:
- Soak Up the Sun
One of the best ways to start your day is by setting good intentions in the sun! No matter the weather, spending time outdoors and soaking up vitamin D is proven to boost your mood and make you feel that you are capable of taking on your day! Maybe it is taking a walk with a hot tea, or sitting on your porch in a blanket with a coffee and journal! Whatever this looks like for you, remember to be intentional with that time outdoors.
- Maintain a Consistent Sleep Schedule
Most all of us feel it – Daylight Savings is CHALLENGING! But, a challenge we can certainly adjust to if we are consistent in our habits! Another way to care for yourself during the cold months is maintaining a consistent nightly routine and sleep schedule. With the sun setting earlier, some may be tempted to take a late nap or hit that snooze button a time or two more, but it is important to remember that we want to make decisions that serve our body for the better. During this season, try to avoid later naps in the evening, stick to a nightly routine of reading and warm lighting, and try to keep that snooze button at a minimum.
- Stay Active
Staying active during the colder months is a wonderful way to release endorphins, warm your body up, and manage the stress you may experience! Creating this consistency is tough because of the time change and the difference in the sunrise and sunset versus the summer months, but creating an exercise routine can lead to lower stress levels, consistent sleep, and a sense of pride in yourself that everyone deserves to feel when they accomplish something! Some of the best forms of exercise in the winter months are yoga, pilates, cardio (walking, running, cycling), or strength training – just to name a few.
- Remember Check ups and Physicals
Don’t forget to schedule those doctor’s appointments! Sick season is upon us, and to avoid that sickness comes with being proactive. Go ahead and schedule your next physical, flu shot, or vaccination appointment to stay up to date with your physical health. Mental and physical health work hand in hand, so it’s crucial we prioritize both.
- Create Time for Yourself and Your Favorite Things
Lastly but certainly not least, be sure to create time for yourself by doing your favorite things during this season of the year. Although this time of the year can be challenging, so many beautiful moments can be created. Maybe this is watching winter movies at home with your loved ones and a mug of hot cocoa. Or maybe it is spending some time on your own reading your favorite book or taking yourself on a lunch date. Whatever it is, be sure it is something you enjoy to do in your down time!
By prioritizing yourself and creating strong positive habits like these mentioned above, you are sure to succeed in having a successful next few months as the cold approaches. Some days may feel harder than others, and that is okay. It is important to listen to your body and what it tells you it needs.