Winter can be a depressing time, with less light, cold weather, and lack of contact with the outside world, this can make individuals feel tired and sluggish. For middle-aged women who are experiencing changes and accepting change, the winter season can sometimes bring out the worst in them. However, this is the best part; there are ways to enhance our mood and make the most of the winter season.
In this post, I’ll share some strategies that can help combat the winter blues, backed up by scientific evidence and love for all the midlife warriors out there.
1. Less Sunlight, More Fatigue: In winter, there is limited sun exposure, which can lead to low serotonin production in the blood. Melatonin production increases, which makes one feel more weary.
2. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): To some, the winter blues can progress to Seasonal Affective Disorder, which is a type of depression that is related to season changes.
3. Lifestyle Shifts: It also gets colder, which means that people tend to stay indoors. This minimizes physical activities and social interactions, which are very important for happiness and health.
It does not have to be like that every year. Identifying these factors makes it possible to take some measures to look after oneself and remain energetic during the cold months.
1. Get Outside Daily: Sunlight is very important for our well-being. Ensure you spend at least 15 minutes outside daily, especially in the morning, to set your circadian rhythm and increase serotonin. Staying warm and walking or just standing somewhere with nature is essential.
2. Create a Cozy Winter Routine: Create a comfortable winter by creating cozy routines. Some tips include lighting candles, using soft textures like blankets, and only keeping things around you that make you happy.
3. Stay Active: Exercise increases the level of endorphins that make people happy and feel alive. You can try a yoga class, weight training, or a dance lesson, but the best of all is to exercise every day.
4. Supplement Wisely: Vitamin D deficiency is common during the winter season. You should ask your doctor, and if it is okay, then take a high-quality Vitamin D supplement to enhance your mood and immune system.
5. Prioritize Social Connection: Do not let the cold prevent you from being sociable. Set up monthly or weekly meetings with friends, have a friend over for a game night, or join a chat group. It is crucial to feel connected with other people.
6. Practice Gratitude and Mindfulness: Writing down the things you are grateful for each day can change your perspective. This, together with other practices like meditation or deep breathing, can really help you stay in the present moment.
7. Brighten Your Environment: Change the colors of your home or clothes to more lively and encouraging ones. Flowers, scarves, and a colorful blanket can all improve your mood significantly.
8. Engage in a Passion Project: It is a perfect time to indulge in the activity you love doing or are interested in, whether writing, drawing, or cooking. They say the best way to prevent boredom is to keep the mind busy, which also gives a feeling of accomplishment.
Light is known to affect the mood, so get yourself a light therapy box that provides simulated sunlight and has been known to help people with SAD. You can use it while working or as an energy source when you wake up.
Feed the Body, Nourish the Spirit Food can help boost energy and improve mood due to nutrients in our food. You should include whole grains, lean meats, omega-3 fatty acids-rich fish, and vegetables in your diet. Soups, teas, and stews can also help boost moods due to their calming effects.
The Strength of Midlife Resilience Winter is a time to stay inside, to think, and to take care of oneself. As midlife women, we have been through many winters, and this one is no exception. With an eye on things and lots of self-care, we can remain sunny even when the days are at their darkest.
I hope this blog post finds you well. I also hope these tips will help you during this long winter.
Comment below or share on social media if this post resonates with you.
Love, Jax
xoxoxo
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