Did you know that cold and dark weather affects your overall mental health? In fact, they are directly connected in many ways, especially if you are a recovering person.
Cold weather can make you feel lethargic and inert. It can tempt you to just lie in bed and hibernate (if only you can). We understand those feelings perfectly.
Who would want to move around when it is freezing? Besides, it is human’s instinct to curl up to save body heat during winter.
But it can seriously affect your physical and mental health if you let the cold get into you.
Maintaining your mental aspect healthy should be your main goal during winter. When you let your mental health suffer during winter, it can tempt you to participate in unhealthy coping mechanisms. Here are some tips you can follow to keep your physical and mental health stable.
- Go Outside
Listen to weather reports or look outside to know the present weather during winter. Take advantage when you see that the sun is out. The sun can literally uplift your mood. Did you know why? Because the sun provides Vit D, which is a very important vitamin that helps improve mood, boosts energy, and prevents depression and anxiety.
Food does not provide adequate Vit D. It is why getting under the sun even for a few minutes can significantly help your mental health.
- Stretch Your Muscles
The winter season can make your muscles stiff. Exercising can help your overall health. Even a 15-minute stretch can boost your overall mood and energy during the day.
Exercising can lessen your stress and can help you to be calm. Fortunately, there are various exercise routines you can follow on the internet, regardless if you are a beginner or not.
- Make a Healthy Plan and Stick To It
Plan your day or your week ahead. Making a schedule that you can easily follow can be your key to a productive and healthy winter season.
Write all your agendas for the day including your healthy meal, exercise, household chores, and other activities that can keep you busy and moving. Avoid all stressful and triggering activities. Do not forget to also follow a consistent sleeping schedule. The most important thing is to stick to your plan no matter what. Sticking to your health plans can prevent unwanted feelings and cravings.
- Connect with Your Friends
Strong social support is a very important aspect of everybody’s life. Stay connected to your friends or family. A simple text can go a long way. You can also set a video call schedule (if they also want it). It is easier now to stay connected because of the internet.
Skyward Treatment believes that a person with strong resolve can beat the winter blues. But if you notice that the tips above do not help in any way, you can always call us!
Let us talk about your struggles and let us help you recover. We are one of the top-rated rehab centers in Houston, Texas. Start your journey now!