The winter months can be a challenging time for many of us. Shorter days, colder weather, and the post-holiday blues can all contribute to feelings of low mood and decreased motivation. But don’t let the winter blues get you down!
Recognising the Signs
If you’re experiencing any of the following, you may be feeling the effects of the “winter blues”:
- Low energy levels and fatigue:Â Feeling constantly tired, even after a good night’s sleep.
- Changes in sleep patterns:Â Difficulty falling asleep, waking up frequently, or sleeping excessively.
- Changes in appetite:Â Increased cravings for comfort foods or a significant decrease in appetite.
- Difficulty concentrating:Â Feeling foggy, forgetful, or struggling to focus on tasks.
- Social withdrawal:Â Losing interest in social activities and preferring to isolate yourself.
- Irritability and increased anxiety.
Finding Your Way Back to Brightness
While these feelings are common during the winter months, it’s important to remember that small changes to your routine can have a significant, positive impact.
The Power of Movement
Physical activity is a powerful tool for combating the effects of the winter blues. Exercise releases endorphins, natural mood boosters that can help to improve your mood, reduce stress, and increase energy levels.
During the winter months, it can be difficult to stay motivated to exercise. The cold weather and shorter days can make it tempting to stay indoors and hibernate. However, even a short amount of daily movement can make a significant difference.
Gentle Pilates: A Perfect Winter Workout
Pilates is an ideal form of exercise during the winter months. It’s a low-impact activity that is gentle on your joints and can be easily adapted to all fitness levels.
Here are some of the benefits of Pilates during the winter:
- Mood Boost:Â Pilates releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects.
- Improved Circulation:Â Increased blood flow helps to warm the body and improve overall circulation.
- Stress Reduction:Â Pilates can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which are common during the winter months.
- Improved Sleep:Â Regular exercise can improve sleep quality, helping you to feel more rested and refreshed.
- Community and Support:Â Our Pilates classes provide a supportive and encouraging environment where you can connect with others and build a sense of community.
More Ideas!
1. Just Breathe
For an instant boost in energy or surge of relaxation no matter where you might be, try taking a few deep breaths with intention. Just sit there and breathe and see what it feels like without going into the judgment zone. Be there in the moment.
2. Try a power workout
For some people, such as those who work long hours or have small children to take care of, it can be difficult to get to the studio or gym for a full 60-minute session. The great thing about Pilates is that a little goes a long way. Even a 20 minute Pilates workout will make a world of difference!
3. Stretch outÂ
When cold weather hits, the parts that get really tight are the ankles because weâre can be stuck in boots all day, and the feet, neck, and shoulders. And as youâre probably (painfully) aware of, when weâre experiencing tension in our bodies, our energy takes a nosedive. The good news is that some simple stretches can make a big impact.
4. Warm up with cardio
Itâs always beneficial to begin a workout with a warm-up and thatâs especially true when itâs freezing outside as you need to get the heart rate going.
Do some little hops or jumping jacks to get that warm feeling from the inside out. Or even a few minutes of Cat/Cows for the spine and Hip Circles would be great.
5. Buddy up
Studies have shown that enlisting a workout partner can help you stay on track and have more fun, too! Working out with a friend not only helps to increase exercise frequency, but it provides a dose of emotional support, too.
6. Mix it up
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