As the dark evenings close in, temperatures change and the wetter days are ever increasing the desire to hibernate becomes ever more appealing.
Inactivity can be more common place during the winter months and for some eating habits change with a desire for more hearty, warming foods. We tend to want to slow down and sleep for longer. These are quite natural instincts and some of them are needed in order to conserve energy and wellbeing. The risk is we become too slow and lethargic during the winter months so this year try to be more mindful of habits and start the season with positive, good intentions.
Meditation is a great way to destress and reflect on emotions and reoccurring thoughts. In Yoga meditation is used throughout the practice by focusing on breath. Try to combine moments of stress with 8 full breaths to reenergize your body and calm any feelings of anxiety.
Exercise through the winter can be challenging whether it is due to the wet and cold stopping us or just motivation. Try to find activities and exercises that you are motivated to do and keep to a routine as best you can. Workout in warm environments or ensure your clothing is suitable for outdoor activities – layers are essential throughout the winter so invest in some good base layers!
Reducing the pace of your training over the winter can help keep energy levels more regulated. Movement classes such as Yoga and Pilates can really help keep the body more mobile and flexible especially if you find you are more sedentary during the colder months. Including plenty of forward and back bends into any Yoga and Pilates practice is recommended as they send energy into the kidneys and bladder and support spinal health.
Tops tips for eating during the winter months are:
• Try to eat earlier in the evening. We tend to want to sleep for longer during the winter so eating earlier will mean bedtime is a period for rest and not digestion.
• Avoid iced or cold food and drinks. Our kidneys are more vulnerable during this season and cold food and drink can chill the kidneys.
• Eat homemade soups and stews to maintain body temperature.
• Avoid going on diets and instead focus more positively on eating a well, balanced diet throughout winter.
• Avoid eating between meals and try not to drink too much during the middle of your meals which will dilute your digestive juices.
Above all Stay Warm, Active, Healthy and Happy!
