Practical tips for a healthier, happier winter
Every moment is precious and we never get it back. So why do we squander so many of them by not relishing this moment?
January is a tough month. By the third week, our optimism and energy both seem to have faded. If you feel down, take comfort you're not alone — it's just one of those seasonal cycles of life.
Having constant energy is the best way to enjoy life. Managing our energy is a skill. Like other skills, we can learn and practice it. Here's what I discovered:
1. Breathe Fully
It's a fact of winter that we suffer from viruses and colds. When we do, our breathing becomes shallow. Breath creates 'Prana' — our vital life force — so anything less than a full breath robs you of energy.
How to breathe fully: Lie on your back, inhale through the nose for a count of 16, exhale for 16. Focus on drawing the breath to the belly, then to back of ribs, then across the collarbones and lastly to the base of the throat.
2. Sleep Enough and Consistently
Matthew Walker advocates not just a regular 8 hours of sleep but keeping to the same pattern. His top tips: don't drink coffee after noon; don't drink alcohol; eat early; dim the lights for 2 hours before bed.
3. Move Regularly
To prevent stuck energy, you have to move. When you feel low, exercise might be the last thing you want to do, but it will be 100% the most beneficial. Our lymphatic system has no pump like the heart: fluid is only shifted through movement.
4. Eat Healthily
Amazingly, switching to organic vegetables made me feel better immediately. Within 24 hours I had new vitality. Junk food doesn't just deprive me of nutrients, it robs me of optimism.
5. Have a Positive Mindset
The mind doesn't know the difference between thought and action. How much time do we spend complaining about what's wrong? If you want to feel happy, savour your happy moments. Happiness is contagious if you talk about it.
May you treasure more moments. Be kind to yourself.