
The winter months can bring a lot of changes – lower temperatures, grey skies, and shifts in our mood. This can all impact how we approach the day and while sticking to a routine can be hard, there are ways to make winter more manageable.
Control what you can
With the weather being very unpredictable this time of the year, it is important to give yourself reminders of what you can control, and what aspects of life can stay consistent throughout the winter. This can come through scheduling or setting aside time consistently for a break or to add something new to your day.
Old Schedule, New Tasks
If getting in a daily walk was a big part of your routine in the warmer months, try getting in some light stretching or extra play time with your pet or family. This can be a substitute that allows you to keep moving your body.
Take Breaks
Taking and honoring breaks by separating yourself from other responsibilities,can be another great way to bring energy back to yourself. Set yourself as “away” when taking a lunch break, and don’t work through it. Create space where you can enjoy your break comfortably and use that time to rest and recharge.
Seek Out Sunlight
It’s important to continue to get sunlight and fresh air during gloomy weather. Lower levels of Vitamin D have been associated with symptoms of anxiety and depression, so creating spaces where you can get sunlight can also help. Try switching your work-from-home setup to a room with more artificial or warm lighting, keep the blinds open during the day, or create time on warmer days to add a brief walk in.
Get Moving Indoors
Use some of the “built in” time indoors to keep your body moving. Doing yoga, putting on some music to dance to, and even cooking can be a great way to continue to give yourself space to mentally process and move around without having to brave the elements. When working in new activities, or reintroducing old habits, it is important to give yourself grace. Framing the actions in a way that puts the benefit to you forward instead of the negative outcomes that come from not doing them can aid in the process.
Stay Consistent with Sleep
Make the most out of the time inside by developing a sleep routine. Focusing on doing things that slow your body down prior to bed, such as yoga, meditation, or reading, can help with the transition between your day and your rest. Try using the 3-2-1 rule when thinking about a sleep routine, get in your final meal 3 hours before bed, stopping work or high stress activities 2 hours before, and limiting screen time 1 hour before sleep can improve your sleep hygiene.
Building a routine can be difficult, so be sure to be flexible and compassionate with yourself. Routines can’t be established overnight, try taking small, realistic steps to help manage the build up.
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