Try as we might there is no denying that the clocks officially went back this weekend and thus we descend into the darker nights and mornings and the colder temperatures. BUT it's OK, I have some tips to help you cope.
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GET YOUR VITAMINS IN YOU
* Look after yourself my friend by eating healthily and boosting your immune system :) That means more fruit and veggies rich in vitamin C; maintaining a good zinc balance (found in spinach and legumes); eating iron rich foods such as red meat, lentils and leafy green vegetables.
* More dairy products, eggs and fish will up the protein, Vitamin B12 and calcium in your system. Plus they are supposed to reduce tiredness :)
* And extra good news is that our winter vegetables (which maybe we have stored or still have in the ground) are starchy and fibrous (like cereals - oats are a super food!) will make for incredible soups and roasts. Add lots of garlic and ginger and you will keep illness at bay. * More dairy products, eggs and fish will up the protein, Vitamin B12 and calcium in your system. Plus they are supposed to reduce tiredness :)
* Regular exercise inside the house with simple housework on top of exercise videos is fabulous - keep it up.
* but GET OUTSIDE and get your Vitamin D! Wear cosy clothes now, don't let fashion dictate - you need a coat that covers your kidneys, a bobble hat and scarf and please wear socks!
DAYLIGHT SIMULATION BULB
* Turn the dark days into bright sunshine-y ones at the flick of a switch. I love these so much, I use one in the living room everyday when it's slightly dark out there. They're cheaper than light boxes (which the NHS recommends, I must say - even half an hour with one is proven to lighten your mood) and they fit into everyday light fittings so you keep your lamps and shades the same.
* It's so super important and you won't end up a hermit. Socialising in any form is important but, truly, human face to face contact is best for your health.
* Keep to your routine, or develop one. Sleep is essential if you are going to battle any illness or even fight the urge to hide under a blanket and hibernate for a few months. Go to bed at the same time and get up at the same time during the week and you will feel better (look up 'good sleep hygiene' for more tips)
HYGGE
* OH bless us all and hip hip hooray for Hygge! if you don't know all there is to know about this you need to go research because it's the best thing I have ever done bar get a daylight simulation bulb.
This is all about the comfort in the evenings and weekends - blankets, fairy lights, candles, books, lounging around by the fire and feeling super relaxed and cosy - GO, get those candles and get started :)
* Look up 'Päntsdrunk' too it also comes from Finland and is the act of staying in due to the extreme cold, sitting by the fire and drinking with only your pants on, ahahaha.
love and hugs
Carrie x
A timely post with lots of good advice. Take care, and keep warm. xx
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