Page 42 - SilverLakes_Issue 4_2022

LIFESTYLE

WINTER BLUES

he cold and darker months can take to get out for a short walk in the morning Eat the right foods
their toll on the way we feel. Often, or early afternoon when it is light. To help with overall energy levels, it
Tthe shorter days, cooler weather, is important to aim to eat a variety of
and changes to the way we eat, and sleep If you work from home or in an office, wholegrain carbohydrates, proteins, and
mean we feel groggy and tired in winter it can help to get outdoors in natural plenty of vegetables. Many people find
making it difficult to get out of bed. daylight as much as possible or work near it easier to eat a larger range of fruits,
a window. vegetables, and salads during the summer
Additionally, our diet may also change months, but they are not that appealing
during the colder months. In winter, It is also important to keep moving and during the colder season. Try a bowl of
we tend to reach for comforting foods exercise regularly. The exercise-induced homemade mixed vegetable soup with
that are not always healthy and can release of ‘feelgood’ chemicals called brown pasta or lentils to boost energy levels.
make us feel more tired and sluggish. endorphins will give you a boost, reduce
Research suggests that we may be stress and help you sleep better at night. It is normal to crave comforting foods in
more likely to turn to comfort foods the cold and darker months but keeping
in winter because they release mood- Our exercise levels reduce in the colder them healthy can prevent us from feeling
enhancing neurotransmitters serotonin seasons; however, we have the best too tired in winter. Sometimes these
and dopamine. When it is cold and dark weather in Pretoria and in winter we have comforting meals can leave us feeling a bit
out, these foods can give us a temporary the clearest blue skies and beautiful sunny more sluggish if they are not well balanced.
boost. days. Of course, living in Silver Lakes, you
are also fortunate to have beautiful safe Work on your sleep hygiene
Physical activity can make us feel open green spaces in which to exercise. If you have difficulty falling asleep there is
energised and help us to sleep better, Getting out in the fresh air will give you a nothing better than having a warm bath
but it can be difficult to feel motivated to boost of energy. before bed and reading a book or listening
exercise in the winter. to a podcast to help you wind down. Try to
Maybe going to the gym does not appeal avoid screens and vigorous exercise before
So, how can we boost our energy in to you so look for home workouts or trying to sleep, as this will make you feel
winter? keeping active in other ways that you more awake.
Open your curtains in the morning to enjoy can be helpful for energy levels and
allow sunlight into the room. It also helps overall mood. Source: https://patient.info/news-and-features/
how-to-boost-your-energy-levels-in-the-winter

40 | INTRAMUROS MAY 2022