Out of hibernation and into spring
April 3, 2023
Gesundheit, SN, Sports
- by Andreas Burger-
When the winter months drag on as they are doing right now, it can easily happen that you struggle to shake off the winter blues. I'm an active climber, but even I am currently finding it hard to find my motivation. Do you feel the same way – lethargic and unmotivated? With a little effort and a few simple changes, we can overcome these winter blues and feel better and fresher both physically and mentally.
So I've gathered my tips on how I overcome these winter blues:
Get outside
As tempting as it may be to hole up indoors, a walk in the fresh air can work wonders. Even a 10-minute walk lifts your mood and your energy levels. Try, too, to plan outdoor activities, e.g. hiking, skiing, snowboarding... simply whatever you fancy.
Stay active
Even if you can't get outside, there are plenty of activities you can do indoors, for example bouldering, yoga, Pilates or even just a few simple stretching exercises. If you have a gym membership, you should use it regularly, even if it's only for a short workout. The main thing is that you stay active. This stimulates the hormone balance and the metabolism and puts you in a good mood.
Good food
A healthy, balanced diet can help improve your energy and your mood. Make sure you eat plenty of fruit and vegetables, wholegrain products and lean protein. Avoid sugary foods and try to limit your caffeine and alcohol consumption. These factors disrupt your sleep rhythm and make you even more tired.
Self-care
Self-care is important all year round, but particularly important during the long winter months, when you can easily feel drained. Take time for things that do you good, such as a massage, meditation or mindfulness exercises. All of this can help you relax and thereby noticeably improve your mood. Or why not treat yourself to a day off in the sauna or at the spa.
Socialise
Social contact is important for our mental health and can be especially important when we might be feeling isolated. Get in touch with others, whether by a phone call, a text message or even just a quick chat with a colleague or the neighbours. If you feel particularly isolated, you can always join a sports group or a club. Discover new opportunities and meet new people.
Plan your next holiday
Honestly, who isn't looking forward to their holiday, the next trip or even just the next long weekend. The mere fact of planning something to look forward to. Whether it's a weekend getaway or a week-long holiday. Planning a trip boosts the anticipation of what's to come.
Enough sleep
Getting enough sleep is important for our physical and mental health and can be especially important during the winter months. Try to get at least 7–8 hours of sleep every night, and make sure your sleep environment allows for restful sleep.
A change at home and some shopping
Redesign your home with brighter and more colourful tones, or stock up on a new wardrobe - super.natural's new spring collection brings a breath of fresh air for me.
In the end, it's about getting up and doing something for yourself, whatever it may be. It's up to you which path you take and what you do. Get up, motivate yourself, run or set off – the main thing is that you enjoy it and can be grateful for all these unique moments.