How to beat those blues COLD COMFORTS
Accept it
Winter is a frame of mind. You can’t change it so you might as well welcome and embrace it.
Accept that it’s going to be colder and darker, but focus on the positives, like being able to slow down a bit, sitting in front of the fire, or buying some nice loungewear or lighting scented candles…just the little things that float your boat.
Spend time outdoors
Schedule in some things you can do outdoors, like a trail run or a walk in your lunchbreak. Enjoy wrapping up and layering and getting out in the crisp, fresh air. Take a walk round the block so you get a natural nature fix. If once isn’t enough, go round again. It will release endorphins that will help you concentrate better.
Or try something new like cycling or wild swimming. Even just a bounce on the kids’ trampoline can help.
Have mindful teabreaks
Make yourself a nice tea, but don’t rush it. Make it more of a ritual. Let the teabag sit in the cup for three minutes and focus on conscious breathing. So often we rush around and forget to breathe consciously. Meditation can be quick and it’s still worthwhile. Two to three minutes of conscious breathing will still have an impact.
Listen to a podcast
They’re great for when you’re driving, walking, cleaning, or even relaxing in the bath – and will motivate you.
Treat yourself
Whether it’s a candle, a new jumper or a massage or pedicure, buy yourself something nice as a reward for all your hard work from the money you have saved this year on holidays and meals and drinks out.
Keep connecting
We are social animals and, although restrictions have put a bit of a dampener on it, it’s still important to stay in touch with friends and family. Meet a pal for coffee or phone a friend for a catch-up. Sharing things and talking releases the build-up of tension. If you feel you can’t talk, write it down. That’s another way to offload.
Don’t put too much pressure on yourself
Slow down when you can, and don’t feel guilty about it. Be kinder to yourself. It’s been a hard year and you have done well to get through it. Focus on small daily wins, which will help you feel a sense of achievement.
Take a day off
Ensure you have one day a week with very little plans. Turn off the screens, take a nap, enjoy a meal with family, slow down the mind. We are lacking in oxytocin, the soothing hormone. Go into your cave. We all need a cave.