When we’re stuck inside for yet another cold month, and the magic of the holidays has passed, we may find ourselves without motivation to maintain our mental and physical health. Let’s face it, we’re not exactly eager to bundle up and head to the gym, especially when it’s dark out at 5:00 pm!
Nor are we energized to make a big fruit salad when we’d rather be hiding under our heated blankets indulging in mac & cheese. Despite our less-than-enthusiastic attempts to keep our health in check in the winter, there are ways to make our well-being a priority without dreading the task. Below are five ways to prioritize your health during the cold weather months that will change your mindset, infusing you with a fresh dose of motivation.
TO PRIORITIZE YOUR HEALTH DURING WINTER, YOU CAN…
Go for a walk outside
Getting out in nature is vital no matter what season you’re in. In the wintertime, venturing outdoors is especially important as you probably spend most of your time holed up inside. Going for a walk outside prioritizes your health in many ways as it not only boosts your mood but also allows you to breathe in the fresh air and exposes you to the sunlight—essential for your circadian rhythm. Resisting the urge to hibernate all winter long is one of the best things you can do for your overall wellness. Yes, you probably will need to dig out your snow boots, scarves, and gloves for the endeavor, but you will be happy you did.
Open the windows
Opening the windows while it’s below freezing outside may sound like an oxymoron, but it is encouraged to do frequently. Your efforts to hold in the warm air not only dry your skin, but trap toxic pollutants from escaping. By opening the windows a few minutes each day, you’re circulating any stale air in the room and manually forcing those air pollutants out. It’s only a few moments of dealing with the cold air, and then you can go back to your cocoon under the covers.
Take a hot yoga class
Maybe I’m biased being a yoga teacher, but personally, taking a hot yoga class is one of the activities I look forward to the most in the colder weather. Venturing to a class where I know my body can thaw out from the prickling cold air is so exhilarating, especially knowing the health benefits it’s doing for my body and mind. Practicing hot yoga can also boost your immune system during the winter’s cold and flu season, making it much easier to fight any illness.
Allow time for rest days
Some people (I mean me) find it challenging to be stuck inside as their focus goes to doing household chores instead of therapeutic activities like relaxing on the couch with a book. Rather than taking the time to rejuvenate their minds and bodies, they wind up scrubbing dishes and washing the kitchen floor. While all duties shouldn’t be pushed to the side all season long, it is crucial to allow rest days. Permit yourself to lounge around one evening or get engrossed in a puzzle or passion project instead of finding more things to do. Take time off from work at the office and home by allotting time just for you.
Get your fill of seasonal fruits and veggies
Winter fruits and vegetables are often underrated as many people rave over the summer picks. However, many tasty and nutritious fruits and veggies are perfect cold-weather treats. Grapefruits, pomegranates, oranges, kale, and sweet potatoes are just a few of the dozens of fruits and vegetables in season during December, January, and February that many people don’t realize. Incorporate some of these into breakfast, or slice them up into a salad for lunch or dinner, and it will bring your healthy routine right back to the forefront.
How do you prioritize your health during the winter months? Any favorites from this list?
