Psyche

5 anti-winter dip tips that anyone can apply

By Sophie Rietmulder | #!31Thu, 07 Dec 2023 15:15:26 +0100+01:002631#31Thu, 07 Dec 2023 15:15:26 +0100+01:00-3Europe\/Amsterdam3131Europe\/Amsterdam202331 07pm31pm-31Thu, 07 Dec 2023 15:15:26 +0100+01:003Europe\/Amsterdam3131Europe\/Amsterdam2023312023Thu, 07 Dec 2023 15:15:26 +01001531512pmThursday=9#!31Thu, 07 Dec 2023 15:15:26 +0100+01:00Europe\/Amsterdam12#12-07-2023#!31Thu, 07 Dec 2023 15:15:26 +0100+01:002631#\/31Thu, 07 Dec 2023 15:15:26 +0100+01:00-3Europe\/Amsterdam3131Europe\/Amsterdam202331#!31Thu, 07 Dec 2023 15:15:26 +0100+01:00Europe\/Amsterdam12#

How are you holding up during these dark days before Christmas? Personally, I go straight into an intense winter slump when I see that it’s still dark at eight o'clock. Seriously: is it just me, or does it seem to be getting darker in the morning every year? In an attempt to pull myself out of that inevitable slump, I searched for the ultimate routine to get through these months that even the biggest couch potato could stick to. I came up with the following five points that will help us make it to spring with our mental health still intact.

1. Take supplements
Experts say that the dumbest thing you can do to get through the day is to drink more coffee. They sound a bit like your mother during a sermon she gave you before you moved out on your own, but nutrients from a varied diet with fruits, vegetables, healthy proteins, fats, and carbohydrates are the best sources of energy. On dark winter days, when the sun rarely shows itself, supplements like vitamin D can help you get the good nutrients you need to tackle the day with energy.

2. Make your home cozy
Don’t let anyone tell you that you have too many candles, lights, and knick-knacks in your home. According to experts, the state of your physical environment affects your mental health, so create a space where you enjoy spending time. Keep your home tidy, light your favorite candles, and make sure you have plenty of cozy blankets and pillows.

3. Get up earlier
Ugh, I know: don’t shoot the messenger. Getting up earlier is just good for you, even when it’s still dark outside. So start your day earlier and go to bed earlier too. A sunrise alarm clock that mimics morning light can help you get out of bed faster, and I always have a nice lounge outfit and slippers next to my bed to minimize exposure to the morning cold. I’m not going to say you should fill that extra time in the morning with a workout (there are limits), but waking up slowly with a cup of tea and your favorite candle lit can already make a world of difference.

4. Stay active
Still, exercise is a direct mood booster and a major stress reliever. If you don’t like intense workouts, try calmer activities like walking, yoga, or dancing; as long as you get moving at least once a day.

5. Create a routine
For me, winter always feels like one long day. I think that’s because all the days look almost the same, and my spontaneity takes a long winter nap from November to February. Having a fixed routine can help with this. It reduces stress, improves your mood, and promotes sleep. How you fill that routine is entirely up to you, but occasionally adding a nice snack and a tasty drink will get you quite far.