Finding Light During the Dark Winter Days

The end of the year often has us reflecting on our goals, and it's easy to get caught up in what we didn't accomplish. But let's shift that focus. Let's celebrate all the incredible things we did achieve this year – the connections we made, the small victories, and the personal growth.

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Winter in the northern hemisphere can feel a bit gloomy, with shorter days and colder temperatures. But instead of dreading the shorter days, let's embrace this season as a time for reflection and renewal. Winter is a beautiful part of the changing seasons, a time to slow down, appreciate the quiet moments, and reconnect with ourselves.

Even when the sun sets early, we can find ways to bring light into our lives. Let's be kind to ourselves and remember to prioritise self-care and rest.

Here are ways we can keep our spirits high and stay positive in winter

1. Appreciate the slower pace of life
We all have those winter days when we feel like we're dragging and not getting much done. It's easy to feel down when the sun sets so early. But remember, this isn't our normal pace. Winter's all about slowing down a bit. Embrace the cosy vibes, and don't put too much pressure on yourself to be super productive. This time of year, is perfect for a little less hustle and a little more rest. Just know that the days will get longer soon enough.

2. Practice mindfulness with breathwork
Mindfulness is about noticing the magic in the moment instead of wishing things were different. It helps you stay chill, you know? A super easy way to practice mindfulness is to take 5-10 minutes to do some breathwork. Focusing on your breath is like a magic trick for calming your mind and body. It seriously chills you out and helps reduce anxiety. Just start with 5 minutes a day.

3. Go for a 10-minute morning walk
Okay, I get it. When it's freezing outside, all you want to do is hibernate. But trust me, even a short walk outside can do wonders for your mood.

Yoga-inspired tips and healthy habits to build resilience and reduce the effects of seasonal depression.

The fresh air and natural light will instantly wake you up and give you a boost of energy. Plus, movement is key, right? So, bundle up and enjoy that crisp winter air! You'll feel so much better for it.

4. Have something to look forward to in the morning
Just like I crave that first sip of coffee in the morning, flavoured with a unique creamer each day, you should find something to get excited about too! Maybe it's 15 minutes of your favourite podcast, a chapter in a good book, or even a hot yoga class to warm up on a chilly morning. Having that little something to look forward to can make waking up a joy and set a positive tone for the day. It's a simple yet powerful way to start strong.

5. Movement is medicine for mood
I know, those chilly winter months have us craving the comfort of our couch and a cosy blanket. But trust me, moving your body is a game-changer, especially when those winter blues start to creep in. You don't have to hit the gym for hours – even 20 minutes of something you enjoy, whether dancing around your living room, lifting some weights, or a brisk run, can do wonders for your mood. Bonus points if you exercise in the morning, as yoga recommends the best time to exercise is between 6am and 10am, but it's okay if you do it later, as long as you do.