The transition between Autumn and Winter is a really good time to look at how your energy levels and your moods are connected. Many people find this transition difficult and if your energy is feeling low, then it’s natural that your mood will reflect this. We can take extra measures to ensure that we keep our selves in a happier and healthier place this winter.
Here are the top energy boosters – from the team here at Ibiza Retreats.
* Sleep
– Make time for more sleep – there is less sunlight to feed your vitamin D levels which activates the serotonin and cortisol in your brain, making it natural for your energy levels to drop. Your body may need more time to recharge.
– Rise early! Make the most of the daylight hours and try to wake naturally with the sunrise. This will help with the production of serotonin and cortisol. I find sleeping with my curtains a little open in winter helps.
– Keep your sleep routine consistent – this will regulate your circadian rhythms and improve the quality of your sleep
* Nourish
– Try to eat as seasonally as possible to work with mother nature. Things like sweet potatoes, root veg work really well and provide great slow release energy to keep you feeling warm and alert
– Try juicing – just like we get less sunlight hours, then the fruit and veg we eat does too – and often what we do get is less fresh, as it has to travel to us further from sunnier climes. Juicing is a great way to concentrate and maximise the amount of nutrients you are putting into yourself.
– Take supplements if you feel that your body needs an extra energy boost.
* Keep moving and get outside!
– Exercise will get those feel-good endorphins going – even if you feel lethargic and tired, resist the urge to slouch in front of a screen (whether it be a TV computer or phone!). Commit to a regular class or time to exercise daily / weekly and stick to it! It doesn’t have to be a high intensity class, but something which moves your body and focuses your mind. Try a few out to see what you enjoy.
– Take a walk! Even if it’s raining – put on a good rain coat and get out there! Fill your lungs with oxygen and energise your limbs. Take time to look at the beautiful colours and be really mindful as you walk. You’ll be amazed how much better you feel.
* Cuddles and kindness.
– Hug more where you can! Your partner, friends, kids, pets – anyone or anything to feel the love.
– Be kind to yourself – don’t feel bad if your energy is low. A great friend once said to me “this too shall pass”. Surrendering to how you feel and making peace with it rather than self criticising is often the best way.
* Get some winter sun!
– Do you have the opportunity to take some time out for yourself to recharge the batteries? Here in Ibiza, we benefit from over 300 days of sunshine a year, so if you’re feeling sluggish and low, come and get some gentle vitamin D
Why not join us for our New Year Revitalisation Retreat and begin your 2017 on a powerful and positive note
www.ibizaretreats.com/new-year-revitalisation-retreat
Or choose a group retreat from our full schedule from 28 February 2017
www.ibizaretreats.com/retreat-calendar