During this time of year it can be really tough to keep a positive attitude towards things. Days get darker early and the cold can really effect some people. Seasonal Effective Disorder is a real thing and is quite common. The exact cause of SED isn’t known but they say it is linked to the lack of sunlight we get in the winter. For anyone like me change can be a tough thing to cope with due to anxiety. It’s in most peoples nature to become comfortable in living environments and as those change seasonally so can your mood. It’s perfectly normal to feel more tired, down or less positive. Here are 5 ways to boost your natural positive energy during winter.
Positive in Winter
As I struggle with the cold and the changes I wanted to come up with some ways to help. As I also live with Crohns Disease this can also get worse during winter, no idea why it just seems to have a pattern of being bad this time of year. It’s so important to look after yourself and do things to make yourself happy. As the seasons change it is normal to make adjustments to your lifestyle, especially becoming more aware of your feelings.
Stay Warm
This sounds like such an obvious thing to do but many don’t wear the correct clothing. Invest in some thermal tops and leggings to wear under your clothes as an extra layer. Central heating and radiators can dry out your skin and make you feel tired. To prevent that, wrap up warm and try not to rely on them as much. Also drink more hot drinks and stay hydrated so your body is more awake and alert.
Take Extra Vitamins
As the sun is out less our Vitamin D can become low, causing symptoms very similar to anaemia; like fatigue, pale dry skin and low calcium. Get yourself some good vitamins recommended by your doctor or pharmacist.
Early Nights
Sleep is so important when it is cold as your body will feel tired from trying to keep warm. Try get into the routine of earlier nights by treating yourself to a hot water bottle and snuggly socks. A nice chamomile tea an hour before bed really helps to calm and settle me. Don’t drink it if you have a sensitive bladder though! haha.
Stay Social
Just because the days get dark early and its cold don’t forget to see your friends. It isn’t as enjoying as sitting in the sunshine sipping Pimms at 8pm but you can enjoy seeing them in other ways. Meet up to go ice skating, for hot chocolate, for dinner or just have a movie night at one of your houses. It’s so important not to get lonely and distant with people. The more you push yourself to do things the more positive and happy you will feel for doing it.
Focus on Something
It’s a great time of year to start an indoor hobby, particularly crafting. I love crafting during this time of year because you can stay in the warm and focus on something creative. Other things you can do can be baking, knitting, crochet, scrap booking, nail art and so many more ideas!
The trick is to staying positive is mind over matter. Stay focused on positively, adapting your lifestyle and looking after yourself.
xxx