Winter is a high-spirited season like no other filled with a sense of magic, excitement and goodwill. Here at NothingFishy, we see it as a time to slow down, reflect and look forward to the promise of brighter days ahead.
There’s lots of reasons why many of us anticipate the later months of the year and all the festivities that come with them, but for some, winter can be a challenging time.
Shorter days and a lack of sunlight can leave us feeling mentally drained while plummeting temperatures can make us feel further unmotivated to go outside and exercise.
During winter, we’re also much more likely to come into contact with viruses such as the common cold, flu and COVID-19. This is because we tend to spend more time indoors with others and breathe in colder, drier air which weakens our immune system.
Luckily, there are many effective ways you can fight off those winter blues and feel your best both mentally and physically. We’ve put together 5 of our top tips to help you bounce back and feel ready for the joys of spring!
Stay Hydrated
While we tend to be less thirsty in cooler temperatures, we still need to stay hydrated to maintain our core body temperature.
It’s often difficult to know when we’re sweating when we’re wearing more layers of clothing - this combined with drier air can cause us to become dehydrated without even realising it.
To stay hydrated during the day, we recommend carrying around a reusable water bottle that you can easily refill. If you struggle to drink water on its own, you can always infuse your bottle with a few slices of fresh fruit to lift the taste.
Take Supplements
When used correctly, supplements can make a real difference to your health. The best part? You can take them all year round!
Our algae-based Omega 3 DHA softgel supplements not only help to prevent dry skin during winter, but they also promote better mood, alleviate inflammation and support your overall eye, heart and brain health.
DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is an essential type of Omega-3 fatty acids, with algae oil being one of the best and most sustainable sources of this.
Keep Moving
It may be freezing outside, but there are still plenty of ways to keep fit during winter! It’s all about getting your heart pumping - an energising home workout or a 20-minute jog should be more than enough if you’re wanting to break a sweat.
Studies have shown that regular exercise can help to strengthen your immune system and increase the production of serotonin and dopamine, the two “happy hormones” which help to reduce anxiety and boost your mood.
If high-intensity exercise isn’t possible for you, try getting out into the open for a walk during daylight hours, even if it’s just for your lunch break at work. That way, you can get some steps in, and if the sun is peeking through the clouds, you’ll also be able to top up on that all-important Vitamin D. Even better!
According to GOV.UK, the UK Chief Medical Officers' Physical Activity Guidelines advises that adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of physical exercise each week through a variety of activities.
Eat Nutrient-Rich Foods
During the colder months, our bodies naturally crave healthy foods grown from the ground to provide warmth and nourishment.
By incorporating a good mix of fruit and vegetables into your daily diet, you’ll be able to help support your immune system and give your body all the essential vitamins and minerals it needs during the harsh winter months.
We all know the importance of a balanced diet no matter the season, but during winter, cooler temperatures and festive foods often make it all too tempting to indulge. It’s absolutely fine to enjoy your favourite foods every now and then (we’re all human after all), but try to keep on top of your 5 a day where you can.
Connect With Others
Winter may be largely associated with celebration and togetherness, but it can often feel isolating, especially if you live alone in a cold climate.
When the snow is coming down and the wind is slamming against your door, we wouldn’t blame you for wanting to stay in and hibernate, however it’s vital for your mental wellbeing to stay socially connected with your loved ones.
A quick catch-up with your favourite person can do wonders for your mental health. If you're someone who lives by themselves or far away from family and friends, try your best to make time for a quick chat on the phone or a video call. Laughter truly is the best medicine!
