As winter gets closer, it's easy to feel the effects of darker mornings and colder days. For many of us, this shift can lead to lower energy and a natural pull towards hibernation mode. But with a few mindful adjustments to our daily routine, we can build resilience and stay grounded through the colder months.
Start your Day with Natural Light and Movement
Getting outside for a morning walk, even for a few minutes, can be incredibly powerful. Exposure to natural light in the morning helps regulate our circadian rhythm, supporting better sleep and overall energy. Walking also boosts circulation and helps 'wake up' our body and mind, especially on darker mornings. If a long walk feels like too much, consider 'exercise snacking', or short bursts of movement throughout the day, to keep energy levels up and muscles active.
Nourish with Warming, Nutrient Dense Food
Our bodies naturally crave warmth and comfort in colder weather and our nutrition can play a big role in supporting that. Soups, stews and meals rich in protein and fibre help sustain energy, stabilise blood sugar and keep us feeling grounded. Batch cooking a comfort dish means you'll have nourishing options ready for those nights when you don't feel like cooking.
For breakfast, try warming choices like scrambled eggs with seeded sourdough toast or porridge topped with nuts. These options give that cosy 'Ready Brek' glow to start the day and provide lasting energy. A hot drink with breakfast can make all the difference, keeping you warm from the inside out.
Prioritise Restful, Restorative Sleep
Sleep is one of the most powerful tools for resilience, allowing us to recharge and process the day. As we adjust to the shorter days, establishing a consistent bedtime can help support restful sleep. Evening routines, like winding down without screens, or practising a calming breathing exercise, help prepare the mind and body for deeper, more restorative rest.
Keep Moving, Even on Colder Days
Movement is essential for both physical and mental resilience. Colder mornings can make it harder to stick to long workouts, but shorter, consistent movement is still powerful. If you're not ready for a full session, consider one of my shorter online yoga classes that can be done from the warmth of your home. Even a few minutes of yoga or light stretching can help maintain mobility, boost mood and build overall wellness.
Practice Breathing for Calm and Resilience
Breathing exercises are wonderful tools to support your well-being by calming the nervous system and bringing us back to the present. Try the Lazy 8 Breath - imagine the number 8 on it's side and focus on the centre. As you inhale, trace one loop of the 8, and as you exhale, trace the other. This balanced breathing is really easy to incorporate and can help regulate emotions and bring calm.
As a certified Breath Coach, I've recorded a series of breathing exercises tailored to different needs. Feel free to reach out if you'd like a free sample. These practices can be a wonderful addition to your winter wellness routine.
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