6 Ways to Avoid the Winter Blues

The colder months bring so much seasonal fun to be excited about, but for many people the shortening daylight hours also come with a tendency to low mood. Check out our six top tips on staying healthy and happy during the winter season:

1. Get as much sunlight as possible. The more vitamin D you can get, the easier the transition will be into these gloomier months. Whether you walk to work or take a stroll on your lunch break, wrap up warm and get outside! And when you can’t be outdoors, try sitting by a window to maximise your exposure to natural light.
2. Take care of your health. The last thing that’s going to improve your mood is a bout of the flu! Make sure to keep your immune system strong by choosing foods that are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, like the Jujube Fruit. It is also packed with phytonutrients such as flavonoids which helps uplift the mood and improve sleep.
3. Hit the gym. The dopamine boost that comes with a workout will help to keep seasonal blues out of the way in the short term, but maintaining your fitness routine will also keep your self esteem high in the long term. Why not take this time to set yourself a new goal, or try a new class?
4. Make a furry friend. Studies show that those with animal companions are happier, less stressed and even longer living! Adopting a pet is a huge responsibility and not an option for many people, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make a furry friend. Try volunteering with an animal charity or take advantage of services like Borrow My Doggy.
5. Don’t overeat. This might be ‘comfort food weather’, but the things we usually describe as ‘comfort food’ are stodgy, calorific and heavy on the bad fats. Too much will just make you feel lethargic and bloated: not comforting at all! Instead, focus on foods that are light but nutrient-dense: a vegetable and tofu stir fry, or a warming soup.
6. Try new things. Feeling stuck in a rut is not conducive to a positive outlook. Fortunately, you can weave new and enjoyable experiences into your daily life without breaking the bank. Scope out the free museum offerings near you, try learning a new skill, and experiment with new ingredients in the kitchen.

Tell us, what are your favourite healthy comfort food recipes for this time of year?