We can’t ignore it anymore: winter is approaching. Drier days, less daylight and extreme temperatures make it difficult to keep our energy up. It seems as if nature is completely withdrawing and entering a deep state of rest. Our current daily life and work routine usually doesn’t allow us to do the same. Yet it is essential to take a moment to reflect on our own well-being and incorporate moments of self-care. It may require some awareness and time, but your own balance and self-care are definitely worth it.
1. Go outside
During periods when sunlight is scarce, it is all the more important to get some natural light in from time to time. Many people leave for work when it is dark, only to spend an entire day in artificial light and finally return home when the sun has long since set. This artificial rhythm has an impact on our mood, but also on our immune system. The temptation is great to stay indoors more often. Take a short walk during your lunch break or opt for an outdoor activity on weekends. A few minutes of sunlight on your skin can do wonders to keep your vitamin D levels in check, an essential vitamin our body needs to absorb calcium from food and keep the immune system functioning properly.
It might take extra effort to get outside in the evening, but this also has a positive effect. Spend extra quality time with your four-legged friend outside, go for a walk with your partner or a friend… Whether it’s cold or even raining, the good feeling afterwards is guaranteed!
2. Delay
It seems as if your energy levels fluctuate with the rising and setting of the sun: a little less than during the summer months, in fact. In itself, this is a natural reaction of our bodies; there’s no point in fighting it like a madman and planning every free moment with work, hobbies, and social obligations. Listen to your body; there’s no shame in occasionally curling up in bed early and catching up on some sleep. After all, that’s what the concept of a winter sleep is for, right?
3. Choose connection
What could be more enjoyable than a cozy evening with friends and good conversations? Turn your home into a warm haven where you can truly relax. Ambient lighting, candles, a Christmas tree, or symbolic objects that hold special meaning for you make your home a place to unwind. This is an ideal time to pay more attention to family and friendship bonds. Delicious food and a good glass of wine complete the picture. Whether you cook yourself or choose a caterer, do what feels right for you. Focus on connection and authentic interaction; your batteries will undoubtedly recharge.
4. Pay attention to your diet
It may seem cliché, but the winter season demands a lot from our bodies. It is therefore important to ensure that we get all the essential vitamins and nutrients. No period is a time to just eat fast food or one-sided meals; opt for nutritious, healthy alternatives that support your energy levels and provide warmth from within. Adequate hydration is also very important now, given that we spend most of our days alternating between heated rooms and cold outdoor air that dehydrates our skin. Nutrients like ginger and turmeric can boost your immune system and help combat unpleasant winter ailments such as flu and colds. Below is a recipe for a delicious warming drink, ideal for enjoying in the evening under a blanket!
5. Treat your skin extra well
Not only our mood suffers during the winter months, but our skin also has to put up with a lot. An ideal opportunity to indulge in some extra pampering moments. Imagine not having to visit the beauty salon or the massage therapist anymore. Not only your skin will be grateful, but you will also feel satisfied afterwards when you receive a compliment about your appearance. It doesn’t have to cost a lot at all: take the time to have a warm bath or shower, light some candles in your bathroom and treat your skin with some extra moisturizing cream.
6. Make room for less important moments
Winter often brings feelings of sadness and melancholy. Some people hate the holidays because it is then that they are confronted with the loss of a loved one. Allow yourself to feel these feelings. Not every day is perfect or filled with joy; accept the day as it comes. Give these emotions a place by consciously allowing and acknowledging them. Don’t lose sight of the positive either. Try to write down daily things for which you are grateful in your life, no matter how small. Feel what this does to you; you will see that there are always things that can give you extra resilience.
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How we can help you
Self-care is not a luxury, especially not at work. See how we work on well-being at work, or discover ours mental health workshop.