Winter can be tough. Tough on our mental health, tough on our relationships, and (for some) tough on our bodies. It’s often more difficult to get outside and exercise, and all too easy to take comfort in eating treats during the long winter months.
But spring is almost here and that means one thing: a fresh start. Lighter evenings and better weather will make exercising outdoors enjoyable again. Bank holidays make for much-needed time off with family and friends. It’s time to shake off the winter cobwebs and put your health first.
1. Get outside
With daylight savings happening in late March, the mornings and evenings are about to get a lot brighter. Try using that extra daylight time to do a sunrise yoga session or go for a walk after work. Spending time outdoors can lift your mood — we need sunlight for our bodies to make vitamin D.
If you’re concerned about your vitamin D levels, consider taking a supplement.
2. Eat the rainbow
During winter it’s easy to get into a rut eating the same meals over and over. Try varying your fruit and veg intake to include a variety of colours — think beetroot, broccoli, carrot, aubergine, mango and more. If a busy lifestyle means you struggle to cook from scratch, try making a daily smoothie packed with frozen veg, fruit and a scoop of greens powder.
Eating a variety of foods all counts towards a balanced diet, as well as keeping your gut healthy. Try to eat plenty of veggies, fruit, and grains to keep your digestive system in check.