6 Tips For Easing Winter Blues

With winter here and the nights drawing in, it's easy to feel more 'Hell No' then 'Hell Yeah'. You're not alone. 

If you feel your spirits drop around this time of the year, read on to find out what can help get through the long cold months with some sanity intact.

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1. Exercise

Not only do you get those endorphins racing around your body as a result of getting active, but the sense of achievement of having just done something that you know is good for you is also a huge help. Aim for at least 30 minutes activity each day. 

From running on coast paths to walks in the woods, HIIT circuits to dancing in the kitchen, from a yoga class to swimming- Find something you enjoy. Everyone needs some rest days from hard exercise, but the point is to stay active!

Try this: Schedule a little activity in for each day and get it done.

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2. Get Outside

Being outside can help us to forget the daily stresses that affect us all and clear the mind whilst reconnecting to nature. With fresh air and a bit of time usually comes perspective. 

Try this: For one week, take at least ten minutes of your day outside. If it's raining, it can be good to remember that you're not made of sugar, you won't melt. What's the worst that can happen?

Why You Should Train In The Rain (Sometimes...)

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3. Gratitude

Perspective can be the difference between an ordeal and an adventure. 

Try this: Each day (morning or night), write down as many 'good things' from the past 24 hours as you can think of. From a beautiful view or a warm interaction, to keeping your cool when you'd usually lose it, or achieving your goal of spending 10 minutes outside. Anything goes. The more you do this, the more you'll start looking for the good to write down!

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4. Stay Social

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We are sociable creatures, meant for authenticity and deep connection with those we love. It's easy but dangerous to hibernate for too long, it's easy to forget how amazing you feel after a coffee or a quick call with a friend. As much as it may feel like an uphill battle to get going, it definitely pays off.

Try this: For one week, make the effort to have real human connection each day. A simple phone call will do, and note how you felt before and how you feel after. Do you think you helped the other person too?

5. Self Care

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This is a biggie. Self care covers a lot of topics, such as eating well, talking kindly to yourself, doing things you love just because you can, taking time to appreciate the little things, taking time to note your own achievements, taking time to present yourself well so you feel good about yourself. 

Basically, it means treating yourself with the kindness and love you deserve, not constantly putting yourself down or neglecting your own wants and needs for whatever reason.

Try this: Spend one week consciously trying to act with acceptance and kindness for yourself. Check your self talk. Be ready to re-frame negative thinking. Eventually it'll catch on and become second nature.

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6. Know That It Won't Last Forever

I promise the sun will shine again. There would be no rainbows without a bit of rain.

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Want a hand to get through this winter or to implement any of the above? Ready to make some changes but need some support and structure?

Check out why all Hell Yeah Healthy Programs work and then find your perfect fit.

Do you have any extra tips for me? Any comments? That's great- shoot me a message or leave me a comment below ​❤

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