7 Tips to Stay Healthy During the Winter

Winter can be a challenge to maintain the habits you had in spring, summer and fall. Low temperatures, lack of sunlight, the tendency to be sedentary and the increase of social events around food, can generate a weight gain of 4 to 8 pounds and/or a regression in your plan towards a healthy lifestyle.

The truth is that you are the one who has to find a way to adapt and enjoy the moment, because nature is perfect and when you follow what it offers you, your body will react positively. Here are some strategies for you to learn how to manage your routine around the cold season and you can leave behind the excuses so you can keep the momentum you already bring to take care of yourself consciously or decide to start a process of transforming your body without having to wait until January to start.

1. Sleep at least 7 hours: sleep is essential at any time of the year, but in the winter your body will need to recharge and get ready for the next day.

2. Hydrate frequently: although you may not feel thirsty, your body needs hydration to continue functioning properly and avoid headaches, dry skin, etc.

3. Eat while there is natural light: it is a time to reorganize your kitchen schedule, eat breakfast at sunrise, move your lunch time 1-2 hours. If you normally eat lunch at 12 noon, now do it at 1 pm or 2 pm and make sure to consume protein and animal fat at both times which will ensure energy efficiency. You can skip dinner or do it before the sun goes down.

4. Plan dishes to share: Social events with family, friends and/or office colleagues tend to be characterized by food. If possible, plan ahead to bring a healthy dish to share of something you can enjoy.

5. Expose yourself to the cold: Just as we expose ourselves to the sun in warm weather, during the winter season, expose yourself to the cold a little each day. Exposure to cold can improve the body's insulin response, allowing glucose to be cleared from the blood more effectively. For example, take a cold shower in the morning to activate your cells, wear less clothing and go outside to watch the sunrise or just enjoy it through an open window.

6. Move: keep a combined routine of stretching, cardio and weights at least 4 days a week in order to create endorphins, happiness hormones.

7. Use red light: As soon as night falls, consider using light therapy lamps, red bulbs or candles to keep you going while you go to rest. This light environment in addition to generating calm will help you balance your mood and sleep patterns due to the little exposure to the sun during the day.

The winter season can be challenging for some people, but with a combination of lifestyle adjustments and a proactive approach, you can overcome these obstacles and stay on track to a healthy lifestyle, avoiding unwanted weight gain and preserving your overall wellness.

Ready to improve your life and health, book a free session with me and let's get started on this journey!

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"The information provided is for educational and informational purposes only, and is made available to you as a self-help tool for your own use; it is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult with a health care professional."

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