Beat the winter blues: self-care tips to keep you energised this season!
It’s fair to say that for most of us the cold, gloomy, and dark weather can affect our mood, making it that little bit harder to keep motivated and stay energised during the darker months. However, with a little self-care, you can beat the winter blues.
Make Exercise a Priority
Exercise and movement are a powerful way to boost your energy and get the happy hormone serotonin pumping around your body. INSERT recommends getting in 10,000 steps a day. As a teacher or lecturer, we know that your schedule can be hectic, that can sound like a lot but breaking it down to 3 x 20 minute makes it more digestible and spending time in nature is good for your mental and emotional wellbeing too.
Get Outdoors
Winter weather and shorter days often make it challenging to get enough fresh air and sunlight, which can negatively impact mood and energy levels. Try getting outside for at least 15-20 minutes each day for a walk or other outdoor activity. You can also invest in a light therapy box, which provides artificial sunlight to help boost your mood and energy levels.
Eat Healthily
The foods you eat have a significant impact on your energy levels, mood, and overall health. During the winter season it's key to focus on eating seasonal fruits and vegetables that are packed with nutrients and feel-good hormones (and to balance out those festive treats). Eating more complex carbohydrates, such as whole-grain rice, bread, or pasta, which provide your body with sustained energy throughout the day. To make smart choices while grocery shopping, try using the free NHS food scanner app. Just scan the barcode of your food and drink items to see how much sugar, saturated fat, and salt they contain. Plus, the app provides healthier swap suggestions so you can make better choices for your well-being.
Prioritise Sleep
We naturally feel more sleepy during the darker months and getting enough sleep is critical if you restore and keep your energy levels up. When you don’t get enough restful sleep, you’re more likely to feel irritable and experience a lack of focus and motivation. Aim to get at least seven hours of sleep daily and adopt healthy sleep habits. You can do this by shutting down screens at least 30 minutes before going to bed, keeping a regular sleep schedule, and avoiding caffeine or alcohol late in the day.
Have you tried the Sleep Cycle app? It's free and it does an amazing job of tracking and analysing your sleep. Not only that, but it also wakes you up at the perfect time so you feel completely refreshed. Give it a shot and start getting the best sleep of your life!
By incorporating these simple self-care tips into your daily routine, you can stay energised, motivated, and beat the winter blues. Make sure you prioritise healthy eating, exercise, and sleep. Remember to also take time for yourself and get outdoors whenever possible. With these self-care tips, you’ll be able to find more joy and fulfillment during the winter season, and provide your students with the best you can be.