I am, and always have been, super active. I walk Rosa daily, which is my favourite way to start the day – outdoors, whatever the weather. Moreover, I have always loved to play sports.
As much as I love exercise, I definitely don’t love the cold, dark winter months. I’m the type of person who thrives in warmer climates, soaking up every bit of the sunshine and loving those weeks when it’s light until late at night.
And so, as we head deeper into winter, I need to remind myself of ways to maintain my health and fitness and keep my physical and mental health in check.
Step Into Winter
Step Aerobics has been a love of mine for a long time. It’s a simple but effective way to get my heart rate up and my blood pumping, whilst listening to my favourite music! I stepped up (eek sorry) my game during my 75 Day Hard period because it was an easy way to fit one of my two daily exercises into my busy routine. I didn’t have to pack and bag and drive to a gym, I could just take out my adjustable stepper, click onto my favourite virtual class and crack on! It’s ideal for when I need to be home with the boys, or I can’t bear facing the wintry conditions outside.
Finding The Right Fuel
I’m not a huge fan of cooking. But I do love to eat well. One of my favourite meals is a colourful plate full of nutrition and I must say, I make a pretty decent salad bowl. On one hand, I’m taking in a lot of good nutrition and on the other, I am eating the type of food that makes me think I could be by the beach in the Caribbean.
Check out these delicious winter salad recipes.
Just Do It
It’s easier for me to say this because I don’t have a choice as I have Rosa, but I can honestly say that I feel so much better when I do it. Just get outside. Wrap up in your warmest, weatherproof clothes and brave the elements.
Walk around your park with your hands wrapped around a hot chocolate, meet up with a friend for a catch-up and a walk, or take out your neighbour’s dog. I know friends who only listen to their podcasts or audiobooks when they’re outdoors and so, it motivates them to be outside so they can press play on the podcast or delve into their latest book. Whatever will encourage you to get out, just do it.
I also think that having a gym buddy helps as you continue to encourage each other to sustain an exercise or activity on the days you really don’t feel like it!
What are your tips for surviving winter without it impacting your health? I’m open to hearing your advice and avoiding Seasonal Affective Disorder!