Turn Winter Blues to Winter Warmth

 

 

During our long, cold, dark winters it is quite common to feel a bit down – perhaps a bit “blue” even. With the busyness of the festive season adding to stress levels it can feel overwhelming adding to a desire to hide under a cosy duvet until Spring starts appearing. While there is nothing wrong in having the occasional duvet day how about truly having a self-care day with some mindful movement, breath-work and meditations. Here are just a few ideas to get you started ….

• Whenever possible go outside as the sun rises (even if it is hiding in the clouds). Take a few moments to notice your posture, feeling into your feet making contact with the earth beneath. Take some lovely deep breaths and take in the morning sunlight to reset your circadian rhythm, give a boost of serotonin and vitamin D and improve your mood ready for the day ahead.

   

  
  
  

   

• How about dedicating some time to new activities or re-visiting old favourite hobbies which have slipped by the wayside? Carving out some essential “me-time” to exercise, be creative, learn or build something to feel alive and productive.

• Journalling can help build resilience, particularly if you ask questions of yourself such as “What did I learn from today?” “What challenges am I overcoming?” What am I moving towards?”

• Expressing gratitude towards ourselves and others is very powerful – every day reflect on three things to be grateful for. These could be quite simple, everyday experiences such as a welcome cup of tea, an unexpected and kind word, the sound of children laughing.

• Connecting with others – perhaps through a volunteering activity or a team in the workplace or joining a community or hobby group - shared experiences will foster a deeper sense of belonging and satisfaction in life.

   

  
  
   

• Practise a body scan meditation: Lie down in a comfortable position and close your eyes. Starting from your toes, bring your attention to each part of your body, moving upward slowly. Notice any tension or discomfort, and imagine it melting away with each breath.

• Above all and as often as you can remember to be kind towards yourself and repeat “I am enough” rather than adding more and more to your “to do” list.

I have created a mindfulness session with the theme of turning winter blues to winter warmth, if this is of interest to you, either for a group or on a 1-1 basis, please message me at debbiemindful@gmail.com or 07854046383.