Ways to Improve Your Mental Health in Winter
Winter is in full swing. This time of year can prove to be challenging for many individuals, not only for their physical health but mental health also. With shorter days, less sunlight and colder weather, it can leave us all feeling a little lonely and down.
Winter blues, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder, affects about 2 million people in the UK and 12 million across Europe. There are many different ways you can do to help your mental health during the season. We have gathered a list of ways to improve your mental health this winter.
Exercise
Exercise is proven to increase the levels of endorphins and serotonin in your body, both these hormones contribute to a happier mood. This in turn will improve your mental health. It is understandable at this time of year all you want to do is bundle up and keep as warm as possible. However, exercising has many benefits. Even the government recommends at least 150 minutes of moderately intense exercise each week.
It is important to remember that there are many ways to exercise. One of them may be running with the treadmill at home, another could be yoga, gym, or even indoor swimming. It does not necessarily have to be out in the cold. Now that makes the idea of exercising a whole lot more inviting. Another benefit is that this is effective in warding off health issues, in the future and the present.
Vitamin D
There are many benefits of vitamin D, as it helps to regulate the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body. During summer, it is easy to get the required amount of vitamin D you require due to the amount of sunlight we get. However, as there are fewer hours of sunlight during winter, we get a fewer amount of vitamin D. Studies have proven that there is a correlation between vitamin D deficiency and poor mood. This will result in damaging your mental health too.
In order to combat this, either take vitamin D supplements or consume foods that contain vitamin D. These are oily fish, red meat, liver, egg yolks, and fortified foods (e.g. fat spreads and breakfast cereals).
Here at VitaProHealth, we have 3 products containing vitamin D: Routine Brain Function Support, Routine Advanced Immuno Defence, and Routine Ashwagandha Capsules. To find out what other supplements we offer, check out our shop now.
Meditate
This is something you may have heard many times but not actually considered. Yes, this does make a difference. It is so easy with life to get caught up. Job, working out, eating and showering. We form habits and sometimes we are mindlessly living. It is important to take time to pause and just breathe. When you meditate, this allows you to remain in a state of being calm and feeling peace, which drastically improves your mental health. If you want more information on meditation, check out this blog we have done on meditation.
Socialise
It is very convenient at this time of year to be able to, isolate yourself and not want to socialize. Contrary to what feels easiest, this is not the best thing to do for your mental health. Spending time to socialise, whether it be with friends, family or your significant other can make a difference. Whether it be from being able to vent about your thoughts or feelings, or it can be another reason that is completely different. An example of one is just grabbing lunch, or even doing something, like going to watch a movie or playing sports. It really is up to you, there are so many ways to socialise, that there is bound to be one that floats your boat.
How we can help you?
Here at VitaProHealth, we care about both your physical and mental wellbeing. The fact is that the two are more related than you would think. This is why it is essential to keep an eye on what kind of food you are eating. It isn’t easy to meet all your dietary needs purely through your regular meals. That is where supplements come in, an easy method to intake the vital vitamins and minerals your body needs. The good news is we sell them, so look no further. Check out our shop page to find the perfect supplements for you.