With winter approaching and Christmas just around the corner it can be a busy (and darker!) time of year. But unlike the changes other seasons bring, the winter months can be harder for many of us with darker skies and colder weather.
The financial burden of the festive season can bring overwhelm. The ‘c’ word seems to creep into the shops earlier each year, and with that comes pressure, pressure to buy, to host, to cook, to spend time with people. Although all of these things may seem pleasant for some, for others Christmas and winter are anything but.
For those struggling with low mood, the lack of sunlight can have a negative effect on motivation and general outlook. So what things can we all do to lift our mood and help ourselves feel brighter?
Here are some tips some of our placement counsellors have provided:
Stay connected; people and nature! Wrap up and get outside whenever you can and join in with any any local community groups or events
Get outside in daylight hours when you can – This can be going for an autumnal or winter walk or pottering around the garden clearing/tidying up – Fresh air and Natural Light (even on cloudy days) can be good for us and help boost our moods – light exercise also has benefits keeping us fit, healthy and mobile. Ideally making getting outside part of your daily routine can really benefit our physical and mental health through the darker months.
Eat Seasonally – Make hearty Soups and Stews from the seasonal veg available and if you have freezer space, make bigger batches and freeze some portions for those days when you don’t have lots of time to prepare something. Also making Jams and Chutneys or Pickling is a great way of using up an abundance of fruit and veg that can be used throughout the winter months or even gifted throughout the festive season. By making these versions at home they are much healthier and tastier than shop bought products which are full of artificial additives and preservatives.
Take up a hobby or try something new – During the darker months we tend to spend more time indoors especially in the evenings, use this time to start/learn a new hobby to keep your mind mentally fit and healthy and also to avoid doom scrolling on social media.
Talking! Whether that is with a counsellor or just a friend, vocally expressing how you feel can help you feel like a weight has been lifted and can help you feel mentally ‘lighter’
When motivation is low, it can be difficult to try new things but it’s important to remember that these small things can make all the difference to your mood and wellbeing. Why not give one of our counsellor’s tips a go and let us know how you get on?
For more information about our low cost counselling service, get in touch today. Email: [email protected]
Feeling inspired to try something new?
Why not come along to our Women’s Craft club, which takes place on selected Thursdays throughout the month. Email [email protected]
You can also get outside with other likeminded people by joining a healthwalk. Organised by Hertfordshire County Council, the walks are free and consist of different grades and routes. Take a look HERE to find out more and download the current timetable for your area.
