Seasonal Wellness

As we come into Autumn, and our bodies adjust to the change of season we can find ourselves feeling a little under the weather.  Here's some suggestions to stay on top of things:

1. Sleep - We all know we need to have adequate sleep, but did you know that quality is important too?

• Stick to a consistent sleep schedule - go to bed and get up at the same time every day
• Stay clear of stimulants late in the day as these can prevent the relaxation needed for a deeper sleep
• Create a relaxing bedtime/pre-bedtime routine - doing something relaxing for 30-60 mins before bed allows a smoother transition
• Minimise screen time for at least an hour before bed
• Keep your room cool and comfortable - cool, quiet and dark is optimum
• Eat dinner earlier so you are not going to bed on a full stomach.  The body doesn't relax fully while still digesting food

2. Nutrition - eat as healthy as possible.

• Increasing whole foods, and reducing processed food goes a long way in supporting our immune system.  Processed food is more difficult for our bodies to digest - which takes energy away from the systems keeping us healthy.
• Drink plenty of water - as the weather cools, we are not driven to drink as much water, but it is still important to stay hydrated - tea and coffee don't count.  But it's okay to drink your water warmer, you don't need it straight from the fridge.

3. Exercise - a little bit every day

• There is no need to begin a strenuous program to be fit during the winter.  Keep the body moving - gentle stretching or yoga (plenty of videos online for in home classes), a short walk - start where you are comfortable and gradually increase your distance.

4. Fresh air and Sunshine - as often as possible

• As the weather cools, it's natural that we spend more time indoors.  As Billy Connolly once said "There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing".  Rug up warm, breathe the fresh autumn air and feel the warm sun rays on your skin.  Boosts immunity, and keeps the spirits up.

5. Relax - stress keeps our bodies in fight/flight mode, where all energy is diverted to escape the (perceived) danger.  Rest and restore mode is where our body's innate healing wisdom comes into play.  Remaining free from stress goes a long way to boosting our immunity.

• Listen to guided meditations - plenty of apps such as Insight timer, or search for healing meditations on YouTube
• Remember to breather - slow and deep whenever possible.  This allows the body to remain in the restorative mode
• Try gentle yoga, or stretching, perhaps a walk in nature (two birds with one stone anyone??)
• Read, or journal.  Listen to relaxation music.
• Utilise Essential oils for their emotional healing and relaxation benefits
• Treat yourself to a massage or energy healing session

6. Rest - different to relaxing.  A proper rest is not scrolling social media or checking emails while sitting still.  It's about listening to your body and knowing when to slow down or stop.  

• a quiet, uninterrupted cup of tea
• a good book
• a craft or hobby for enjoyment (not a project with a deadline - that's a different category)
• Sitting in the garden listening to the birds 

And lastly...

7. Listen to your body - when you create the time to tune in and really listen, your body will let you know when it's time to slow down, to rest, to hydrate, to exercise, or to sleep.

Take care of you!  Wishing you a healthy winter
​Love and blessings
xx