In winter you’re more likely to feel tired, sluggish and get depressed. There is less sunlight, it’s cold outside and your body feels out of sync.
We are going to share a few tips with you that will help you stay positive, active and full of energy even when it’s cold outside!

1. Get more light

Chances are you’re not getting enough sunlight. You’re probably inside a lot more than in the summer, so your body doesn’t get the natural light it needs. Sunlight is important for your circadian rhythm, which tells you when it’s time to wake up and go to sleep. If you don’t get enough sunlight, your body’s natural clock won’t work properly and your sleep cycle will get disrupted. It’s ok to be all covered up when you go out too, your eyes will still register the sunlight which is what you need.

source
Sunlight is necessary for the production of a chemical called serotonin, which makes your body feel good and it also converts it into melatonin. And as we know, if there’s no melatonin, you won’t have a good night’s sleep.
So put on your coat, scarf and hat, get outside even if you don’t feel like it. Your body will thank you for it. Use any chance you can be outside especially when it’s sunny, but even when it’s cloudy, there is enough natural light that will help your circadian rhythm to readjust.
Another way to get enough light is to use the right frequency light at the right time – warm, yellow light in the evening and blue, colder light in the morning.
Going to the solarium can also give you that much needed kick of sunshine and exposure to UV light leads to production of vitamin D in the skin, which is important for your immune system (among others). And feeling warm is another benefit of it that I like.

2. Workout

You can combine this with the first point (get outside) and go running or hiking if you’re brave enough, but any type of exercise is great. We like going to the #gym and lift some weights. Exercise increases your serotonin and dopamine levels, which are the two chemicals you need to feel good and be in a better mood.

3. Supplements - Multivitamins & Adaptogens

Getting enough vitamins in can be difficult at any time of the year, but even more so in the winter when there is no local produce. By taking #multivitamins you’ll make sure your body gets the vitamins and minerals it needs and they will even help decrease your stress levels. I’ve been sick significantly less since I regularly take multivitamins. You’ll need to make sure the type you’re buying does have enough of everything you need.

source
Our favourite type is the following: https://www.scitecnutrition.com/en/products/scitec_nutrition/vitamins_and_minerals/multi_pro_plus
Another simpler one is: https://www.scitecnutrition.com/en/products/scitec_nutrition/vitamins_and_minerals/mega_daily_one_plus
#Adaptogens are healing plants that help balance, restore and protect the body from stress. They have been proven to work because they support your adrenal, which is the gland responsible for your hormonal response to stress. They offer wide-spread support and bring back the body to equality. You can get them in a powder or pill form from supplement shops. There are several types of adaptogens, some will stimulate your body and stamina, others will help relax and calm the body.
The ones we’ve tried so far are Rhodiola and Ashwaganda. Both have a calming effect and I can feel they’re working after about 2 weeks of taking them daily. This is an informative list of most adaptogens: https://experiencelife.com/article/ancient-healers-adaptogens/

4. Social life

Going out with friends and socialising helps against #depression. Studies have shown that people who have many friends are less likely to get depressed. So find a new (social) hobby and make friends. My social hobby is dancing #kizomba, which is an Angolan couple dance that I get to do most Fridays, but any kind of dance or sport will do where people from your community gather.

5. Relaxation & Meditation

Make sure you get enough sleep, have a bedtime routine and have a proper rest in the evening. Without having a good night’s rest your body won’t be able to recover or function well.
Regular #meditation will make you feel balanced and also help you sleep better. You don’t need to spend hours sitting cross-legged on the floor, a few minutes every day will do the trick.

source

If you start practising all, or at least some of these points your life quality should improve noticeably in just a few weeks. So go and have a happy winter 😊.