- By Lauren Maybank
I don’t know about you, but this miserable weather has had me being a right misog - ensconcing myself indoors next to the warmest radiator, drinking endless cups of tea, and taking daily baths with Epsom salts.
It’s been all about self-care for me these past few months, and I tell thee, I *cannot* wait for some bloody warm sunshine on my face, ice creams by the estuary, and finally not having to wear layers of clothes indoors as well as outdoors!
Belvoir Farm Nutritionist Fiona Hunter (Bsc Hons Nutrition) says: "Self-care isn't selfish; it's essential for maintaining good health and wellbeing, and small simple changes, like making sure you are properly hydrated, eating plenty of fruit and veg, and doing a little exercise, can make a significant difference in how you feel both physically and mentally.
If you’re still feeling exhausted and a little bit ‘blah’, now’s the time to focus your personal wellbeing and prioritise self-care.
In addition to miserable weather and shorter daylight hours, the winter months bring an increased susceptibility to illnesses such as colds, which is why it’s so important to take positive steps to look after your health. Fiona Hunter has offered some tips with my grooming/well-being essentials to help get you through the colder months until that first hit of actual sunshine!
Try to get outside and get some fresh air every day: It can be hard to motivate yourself to venture outdoors when it’s cold and grey, but lack of sunlight can cause Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) which increases the risk of low mood and lethargy. Also try Lumie Mini SAD light, £59.99, (buy here) a daily dose of bright light therapy and helps regulate circadian rhythms, leading to improved mood and reduced symptoms of winter blues and seasonal mood changes. It also boosts alertness and reduces daytime sleepiness, making it easier to stay awake and alert during the day.
Take a Vitamin D supplement: Vitamin D is important for a healthy immune system. During autumn and winter the sun isn’t strong enough to allow your body to make vitamin D and by February your bodies stores will be running low. The Department of Health recommend all adults in the UK take a Vitamin D supplement from end of September through to late march/early April (i). We love easy to use Better You Vitamin D + K Spray: Buy Here £8.21, Holland and Barrett nationwide
Stay active: Regular physical activity can help reduce stress and improve mood. Find an exercise you enjoy, whether it's a brisk walk, yoga or dancing.
Establish a relaxing bedtime routine and create a sleep-friendly environment to improve sleep quality: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. People who don’t get enough sleep are more susceptible to colds and flu (ii) (iii).
Stay well hydrated: Cold weather can suppress your body's natural thirst signals and central heating dries out the air, increasing the risk of dehydration. Even mild dehydration can make you feel tired and lethargic, and studies show that chronic dehydration can result in a weakened immune system (iv). A glass of water isn’t always appealing on a cold day, but the good news is that other fluids can help to keep you hydrated. If you enjoy a hot drink but are trying to cut back on tea and coffee, try a mug of Belvoir Farm’s Honey, Lemon & Ginger Cordial. Its like a hug in a mug when mixed with hot water – the perfect way to chase away the cold weather blues. Try Belvoir Farm Honey, Lemon & Ginger Cordial (500ml / £4 / Ocado / Amazon) With the goodness of freshly pressed lemons and real blossom honey and ginger for a spicy kick. Also try this fiery mocktail to warm the soul and banish the winter blues or any sniffles: 50ml Belvoir Farm Honey, Lemon, and Ginger Cordial50ml fresh orange juice25ml fresh lemon juice1 tsp turmeric A pinch of chilli powder Top up with tonic water Garnish with an orange slice and grated fresh ginger (freeze for ease of grating)
Practice mindfulness: Take a few minutes each day for meditation or deep breathing exercises to help manage stress and improve mental clarity. Downloading a breathing exercise app is a great place to start and these days there’s plenty to choose from to suit your needs. Try the @ØTHERS_co app available on android and iPhone https://others.co By using the ØTHERS app, you join a collective dedicated to promoting resilience and well-being. Whether you're seeking to manage daily stress, enhance your creativity, or simply find a moment of peace, the ØTHERS app provides a comprehensive toolkit to support your journey. The app features practices and rituals, there’s also a whole sleep section too for those who struggle catching their zzz’s. Created in collaboration with internationally reclaimed music producer and sleep expert, Tom Middleton, it features different algorithms for winding down before bed, entering deep sleep, and waking up fresh and energised
Connect with others: Nurture your relationships. Reach out to friends or family members for support and social connection.
Nourish your body: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats. Aim for 30 plant-based foods a week. A healthy diet can support overall health and energy levels and strengthen the immune system.
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