Are you becoming more aware of the changing of the seasons and how they may affect you?
Learning to be present with the seasons will support your body, mind and spirit in recognizing all the shifts that are happening within and around you. For many, the shift from fall to winter means cooler weather, fewer daylight hours, changes in activities, in food, mood and a variety of holiday festivities.
Taking a little extra care and making some simple lifestyle changes during this transitional time will help keep you balanced, so you can maintain stronger immunity, good health and overall well-being.
During the winter months, the natural rhythm of your body calls for a slowing down. Rather than fighting the feeling that tells you to get more rest and hibernate, it’s best to listen and follow the cues your body is sending.
Snuggle Up
Snuggle up with a blanket to keep warm and regulate your body temperature. If you are not cold and still feel like you want to cover up, you may be needing the emotional support of a hug or the physical touch of a snuggle. It might be a good time to book a therapeutic massage.
Winter is often a time of reflection and retreat. Focus on creating quiet time, renewing yourself and reflecting on your life, your goals, and your ideals. At the same time, do what you can to avoid staying so busy that you can’t focus inward.
To prevent dry skin and avoid winter colds and flus, be sure to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water. You also want to eat well. Winter is a time for warm, hearty, and healthy foods like soups, stews and curries.
Aromatherapy
Using aromatherapy is another great way to feel grounded, more present and balanced during winter. Use scents such as fresh evergreen, pine, wood and amber.
Winter time is also holiday season which brings joy, laughter, parties and more time with family and friends. For some, the added social and financial commitments can also bring added stress. Be sure to make plenty of time for your self care and minimize the amount of stressors in your life. It’s ok to say no to certain things and to want some alone time to recharge your batteries.
It’s also good to be aware of seasonal patterns of mild depression. You can take steps to alleviate potential symptoms by creating a strong support system and using coping skills like exercising, journaling, being outdoors or in nature, staying in a state of gratitude and talking with friends or a counselor.
Get Your Vitamin D
Be sure you are getting plenty of Vitamin D. The lack of sunshine-filled days means you may not be getting enough to support a healthy mood, immune system, control your blood sugar, weight, and properly absorb calcium. Foods high in Vitamin D include salmon, tuna, cheese, whole milk, egg yolks and mushrooms of all kinds.
Transitions can sometimes be hard on our bodies and our minds. Be gentle with yourself during this time. It doesn’t help to be hard on yourself because you are feeling a lack of energy or inspiration. Stay cozy, fuel yourself with good food, and give yourself a big hug. When you are ready, you can emerge revitalized, renewed and ready for great things in the spring.
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