5 Ways To Wind Down In Winter

When winter calls and the dark nights come, the tendency to feel lethargic and tired is at its peak. Whether you fight it or not, the effects of winter on our minds and bodies, simply can’t be ignored.

Rather than let the winter blues get you down, we have put together a list of the five best ways to wind down this winter and get a good, rested nights sleep.

 

Don’t Take Things Home With You

Now, this may seem easier said than done, but trust us, you’ll feel much better for it. Try to stop thinking about anything that happened in the day that might have been stressful and could keep you up all night feeling anxious or annoyed. There really is nothing you can do about anything once you are at home, so stop thinking and relax; take some time to yourself and be set to face the new day.

 

Exercise

Not quite what you might expect to hear, but exercise doesn’t only have an effect on your body, it also benefits your mind. As we exercise we shift our focus, which allows us to distract from our stresses and worries. Physical activity also releases happy hormones, little things that are scientifically known as Endorphins. Of course, you don’t have to run a marathon to benefit; low intensity resistance or a small power-walk will help you relax and feel more positive for the day ahead.

 

Eat At The Right Time

When we’re tired it can be so tempting to eat anything and everything, but doing so is not good for you right before bed and certainly not good for your waist line. When we eat late at night our bodies start to focus on digesting and creating energy. Of course this isn’t what you want right before you go to bed, as you are more likely to struggle to get off and have broken sleep throughout the night.

Try and eat at least three hours before going, to bed to give your body time to digest your meal and also burn some of the unwanted energy you don’t want to take to bed with you.

 

Have a Relaxing Hot Bath

Not only will this warm you right through to the bones on a cold winters evening, it will also allow you time to switch off and take time out for yourself. Even if its ten minutes, its time for you to release any unwanted tension from your stressful or busy day. Add some Epsom Salts or bubbles, a few candles and you’re set up for the ultimate relaxation.

 

Read A Book

Swap your the TV for a book, or for at least an hour before hitting the hay. When watching the TV we stimulate our brains and prevent resting. Reading a book before or in bed will help you slowly relax and prepare for a good nights sleep.