Boost your Mood Naturally During the Colder Months
As the days are getting shorter and the air is getting colder, the winter months often bring about feelings of low mood and general sluggishness. At times we may feel like we want to hunker down and hibernate, and at other times we may need to make a little effort to boost our mood so that we can feel good all winter long. Here are some ideas to help you feel your best:
Go outside every day, even when it’s cold
Research has shown that sunlight boosts the level of serotonin in our brain which helps improve our mood. Sunlight can also help regulate your sleep cycle (circadian rhythm). Even if it’s a dreary day, you can still get benefits from being outside. Additionally, being in nature and breathing fresh air can have a calming effect on the body which is great for your mood.
Exercise regularly
Exercise releases endorphins which is excellent for your mood. If it’s too difficult to get to the gym or go outside, you might consider doing some free home workout like yoga, HIIT, or dance.
Eat foods that boost your mood
During the winter months, many of us are prone to eating more carbohydrates so it’s important to pick complex carbohydrates which can stabilize our blood sugar and our mood. Some examples are whole grains, beans, and starchy vegetables. As we have less sunlight available to us in the winter months, it’s also important to consider getting Vitamin D from our food which can also be beneficial for our mood.
Stay connected to others
It can be very easy to stay inside and see less people during the colder months. This can make us feel isolated and lonely. It’s important to keep in touch with others either through hobbies, online communities, or volunteering
Get cozy at home
If you are going to be spending more time indoors, can be really helpful to make your living space more enjoyable and comfortable. In scandinavia they have a term for this called “hygge” which is all about getting cozy in your home. This could mean making your place more organized and less cluttered, having comfortable blankets, lighting candles, cooking at home, and decorating for the season.