5 Ways to Boost your Mental Health During the Winter Months
- bloomhypno
- Dec 15, 2022
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 10
People often say to me "Winter is so depressing, I can't wait for it to be over!" But instead of wishing time away, there are things that we can do to make our UK Winters not only bearable but enjoyable too! Here are five tips on how you can feel more energised, motivated and positive this Winter.
In the dark, colder winter months our mental health can take a battering. There’s less sunlight which can cause your brain to produce too much of the sleep hormone (melatonin) and to release less serotonin: the feel-good brain chemical that affects our mood. It’s common to experience fatigue, sadness, difficulty concentrating and sleep problems.
Making time for self care in winter is vital for us to maintain good mental health; even just an hour a week that is set aside as dedicated time for you to do something by yourself, for yourself that makes you FEEL GOOD! Here are 5 ways that will help lift your mood this winter: 🏃♀️ 1. Keep active
Moving your body is one of the most powerful ways to lift your mood and boost your energy. Exercise releases feel-good hormones (serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins) that help combat stress and fatigue. The key? Find a form of movement you actually enjoy! It doesn’t have to be the gym. Try dancing, skipping rope, chi gong, or even a brisk walk in nature. The more fun it is, the more likely you’ll stick with it!
🧑🤝🧑 2. Keep in touch
Making sure you keep in touch with your friends and family over the winter period helps you stay more connected to the world and feel less isolated. And if you can’t see them in person, jump on a zoom call! Even a quick one will help boost your mood.
🌞 3. See the light
Since there’s not much sunlight around at this time of year, it's important to get our vitamin D from other sources like specific foods and supplements.
🍅 4. Eat nourishing foods
Try and be mindful about what you are putting in your body during in the winter months. Making sure you’re getting your five-a-day is a great place to start to get the right nutrients and keep your energy and immune system boosted.
🎵 5. Blast some funky tunes
Research has shown that listening (and dancing!) to some cheerful, upbeat music can improve your mood - even after the song ends. I love me some Motown!
And if none of the above helps then you can always try booking a session with me to give you an extra boost of positivity and motivation. I offer a free 30 minute consultation and booking is easy through my online system. Click the button below to book in at a time that suits you.
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