It’s the time of year when we are spending more time indoors and possibly watching more television, which leads to increased snack time. We rely on hearty comfort foods to get us through the winter. We want to help ensure that when spring rolls around, we are continuing our healthy lifestyle versus having to rehaul our diet.
- Consider other forms of comfort– Instead of focusing on food, you can focus on adding comfort to your daily experience. This could include things like warm and fuzzy blankets and throws, having softer textures in our pajamas, or starting a hobby such as knitting or an art project to keep our hands busy. I recently started art journaling and I look forward to that over eating my favorite dessert, which says a lot. Visiting a sauna and steam room is a ritual that is a part of other colder region’s winter routines.
- Try satisfying and healthy desserts– such as baked apples with cinnamon and oats or boiled grapefruit with brown sugar. You’re getting extra vitamins and minerals, along with fiber. Citrus fruits have energizing effects and are great for your skin and immunity. Dried fruits are also very filling and delicious. Hot chocolate and apple cider are things to look forward to that allow us to slow down.
- Dealing with heaviness– Winter often feels very limiting. Dealing with and naming your emotions is helpful for you to realize why you are craving certain foods.Are you sad because each day feels the same weather wise? Are there certain activities that you can’t participate in and can you make a substitution? For example, you miss going to the beach so you could plan a tropical getaway. It may be a splurge, but it’s worth it for your mental health. If that’s not possible, be creative and recreate a beach getaway at home with an inflatable splash pool and invite friends. It’s not the same thing, but fun in a different way.
- Stay comfortable– If the cold weather is getting you down, consider that you may not be wearing enough layers. It’s important to keep your neck and hands covered. If you’re sensitive to the cold like I am, then winter underwear is really important. Making sure your bedroom is as comfortable as possible with a heater or humidifier for the dry air is essential since you spend a third of the time in your bedroom.
Make a list of the positives that you see in winter, even if it’s tiny. Even a tiny detail as seeing the snowmen in your neighborhood will make you pay attention to your inner child. It’s healthy to embrace winter a little bit, since in some places it lasts for at least several months, but won’t be forever.
