With the holidays over, the days shorter, and the temperatures colder, you may find yourself feeling a little less motivated to get out of bed these days. But you're not alone! Many people feel those winter blues come mid-January, but the good news is, there are plenty of ways to beat them and feel more like yourself again.
One reason many people have less energy in the winter is because of fewer hours of sunshine and therefore less vitamin D and decreased hormone production. Try to get sunlight in the early morning hours, brave the cold even just for a few minutes! The early morning sunlight sets our seratonin and melatonin hormones to work at optimal levels to enhance your energy during the day and better sleep during the night. If you can't get outside during the day, try and sit or work near a window - your mood and energy will only be improved.
The cold may prevent you from wanting to throw on your gym clothes and work out, but staying active during the winter months will enhance your mood! Get your blood and mood flowing with a morning HIIT workout, an after lunch walk, or an evening barre class. Even stretching during your favorite show counts as movement! You'll see your energy increase throughout the day while your sleep is more restful during the night.
Speaking of sleeping, create a schedule so that you are going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. Our bodies, hormones and immune systems thrive on a schedule and getting your 7-9 hours of sleep is crucial! Getting enough sleep also prevents your hunger hormone, ghrelin, from going into overdrive. You'll be more alert during the day with the added bonus of boosting your metabolism.
Keep yourself healthy by creating plates full of protein and all the colors of nature at each meal. You'll optimize your vitamin D levels to increase your energy, while also getting all the necessary nutrients to stay strong and healthy. Organic wild caught fish is full of protein, omegas and vitamin D while cruciferous vegetables are full of fiber, phytochemicals, and vitamins. Add some lemon, orange or lime zest to your water for added vitamin C to prevent sicknesses.
Another way to boost your mood and find motivation during these colder months is to be creative! Start a gratitude journal and write in it every morning or evening. Build something with your children, knit while watching your favorite show. Find times to rest and relax by reading a new book. Get fancy in the kitchen with new recipes and test out your culinary skills. Keep your mind and mood active all winter long!
