Health / Mind
Beat the cold weather blues
As the nights draw in and the days get colder, even the most upbeat among us can start to feel the familiar pull of the seasonal blues this time of year
If you experience that lethargic, can’t-be-bothered-to-even-get-out-of-bed sensation, take comfort in the fact that there is plenty you can do to restore your va-va-voom and kick off the blues.
Eat Well
Yes, it’s tempting to reach for the biscuit tin when you need a pick-me-up but after the sugar high has worn off you’ll not be doing yourself any favours. Refined, processed foods destabilise your blood sugar, zap your energy and affect your mood (mid-afternoon slump, anyone?). Instead, aim for complex carbohydrates found in wholegrains, natural sugars from fruit and veg and lean protein. Hummous with veg sticks, oatcakes with peanut butter and bananas are all great alternatives to sugary snacks.
Exercise
I know that this probably the LAST thing on your mind when you’re feeling low but our bodies have built in ‘feel good’ hormones which are released when we exercise. You don’t even need to break a sweat, a brisk walk for 20 minutes is enough to get the endorphins flowing. This also leads nicely to…
Sunshine
We tend to spend more time indoors this time of year, but like exercise, daylight is an instant mood-lifter. Even if you’re stuck at your desk all day, pull up the blinds, feel the sunshine on your face and you could almost be on a beach in Ibiza sipping pina coladas. It’s great for the imagination too, right?
Be a big kid
Embrace the season. Get your wellies on, splash in puddles, kick through leaves and never underestimate the power of laughter. Round up your mates for long weekend walks, ball games in the park or head to the not-too-far coast for a bracing stroll on the beach.
Image by Lou Archell
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