Turn that winter frown upside-down with these 5 tips to support winter wellbeing:
1. Try a winter activity you’ve never done before.
Snow shoeing, skiing, winter hiking, and more! There are plenty of fun winter activities to try throughout the colder months. Add some excitement to your next winter outing by trying an activity or sport you’ve never experienced. You never know, it could become your new favourite pastime.
2. Explore a nature trail.
Enjoy scenic running, walking, or biking during the summer months? Give these trails a try after a light snow fall. The site of glistening tree tops will amaze you, your lungs will thank you as they fill with crisp fresh air and the serene experience may inspire you to explore the great winter outdoors more often.
Tip: Prepare ahead by checking online trail sites to see which trails are safe to travel and open to the public.
3. Layers are your friend.
Reminiscing of summer tank tops, t-shirts, and tights? Put those summer clothes to use with layers! Turn runner’s tights into base layer long-johns, tank tops and t-shirts into undershirts. The more you layer the better when exploring in the winter cold. Being properly clothed in below zero degree temperatures is critical to your health and safety. Layers ensure your body is protected and that your focus is on having fun not freezing. Don’t forget to protect hands, feet, face, and head; pack spare gloves and socks in case the ones you're wearing get wet.
4. Add a little warmth to your smoothie.
Neglecting your smoothie maker due to cold frigid weather? Warm up your favourite smoothie recipe with a dash of spice! Cinnamon, cloves, cardamom nutmeg and more, add your favourite spice(s) to not only warm up the flavour but also boost your immune system.
Quick, Healthy & Tasty: Blend 1 banana, 1 1/4 cup milk or plain non-dairy option, 1 tsp chia seeds, 1 tbsp hemp hearts, 3 tsp cocoa, 1/2 tsp cinnamon & a pinch of nutmeg.
5. Schedule outdoor time in your calendar.
Fight the urge to sink into hibernation mode by scheduling outdoor physical activity time. Whether you're with a friend, family member, pet, or flying solo, outdoor PA time has a number of proven benefits - helps lower stress levels, supports brain function, and improves mood/has a positive impact on mental health to name a few. Moreover, commit to outdoor physical activity by scheduling it as a repeat notification – a great way to ensure your body and brain is getting the boost it needs.