With Fall rapidly approaching (hard to believe, right?!), the days are shorter, and sometimes busier, and our bodies begin shifting into hibernation mode. It can even affect our mood - we often feel more tired and depressed. To help with this shift, I've compiled a list of things you can do to help you maintain your health during this new season.
(Side note: although I live in south Florida, I feel this shift too!)
1) HYDRATE: we often don't drink as much water during the cooler months, but without the added moisture in the air, it's important to stay hydrated - avoid sodas and sugary beverages, stick to plain water and tea.
2) GET MOVING: do you tend to gain a few extra pounds come colder weather? Similar to other mammals, we can store extra fat in our bodies to prepare us for the coming winter. This can be attributed to the increase of the body's insulin levels, which leads to more fat production. Unfortunately, we don't hibernate (sometimes I wish we did!), so it's important to get about 30-45 minutes of movement a day to keep the body healthy.
3) EAT NUTRITIOUS FOODS: seems like a no-brainer, right? Well, for some people, it can be challenging eating healthy foods during the colder months. Our bodies tend to crave starchy, processed foods, and foods high in sugar too! And during the holiday season, it becomes even more challenging.
Try to maintain a healthy balance with your meals - it's okay to have the starchy, sugary stuff sometimes, but try to eat a variety of fresh, seasonal vegetables and fruits. If you live in an area where it's challenging to find fresh foods during the cold months, try to find a local CSA and aim to buy organic.
Some of the best in-season foods during fall and winter are: beets, broccoli, cabbage, eggplant, kale, pumpkin, squash and dark, leafy greens. Do some research and find out what is in-season in your area.
Also, if you need help, I know a great health coach (wink wink)
4) MAKE PLANS FOR THE COLD MONTHS: when we don't have anything to do, we tend to hibernate and become lazy. Make plans to get out with friends and family - do something active like ice skating or snowshoeing!
(another side note: there is no snowshoeing in south Florida) :)
5) DE-CLUTTER: use this time to get rid of things you no longer need. You'd be surprised at how much being organized can positively impact your health!
6) BE KIND TO YOURSELF: the cold, dreary weather and the holidays can be depressing for some people. The shorter days can cause low mood, and the flu season causes sickness! Listen to your body and give it what it needs, even if that means a donut every once in awhile. Oh, and don't beat yourself up! Re-frame negative thoughts into positive ones by meditating and practicing yoga. If you've never done yoga or meditated before, now is the perfect time to start! There are lots of apps and videos out there that can guide you.
I know a great yoga teacher (wink wink).
7) TAKE SOME TIME TO YOURSELF: Fall and winter are the Earth's way of telling us to slow the f*ck down. Literally. So do it. Start a journal, find a good book to read. Let your body and mind rest.
8) TAKE A VITAMIN D SUPPLEMENT (if you don't already): we get most of our Vitamin D from sun exposure, and during the fall and winter months, we tend to spend more time inside. Taking a Vitamin D supplement will help increase your mood and boost your immune system. Win-Win!
Make sure to do a little research and find a reputable supplement - not all supplements are created equal!
If you need any more tips and tricks during this upcoming season, you know where to find me.
I hope you've found this information useful.
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