Can you believe it’s 2020 – a new year and a whole new decade ahead? You know what else comes with a new year? Resolutions. A seemingly great idea at the start of January when we are all relaxed and rested from our festivities and ready to get fit and healthy – but not so great a few weeks in, when the cold, dark weather is making us feel quite miserable.
So, what’s the best way to combat all those winter doldrums? What we need is a big dose of motivation; a clear head to combat the fog and an energy boost to keep the new year positivity alive.
Fresh air for a clearer mind
With shorter days and darker evenings, winter is a time when we tend to stay indoors more and hunker down – hibernating away until the spring. Unfortunately, this is exactly what we shouldn’t be doing if we want a clear mind.
Here in the Midlands we are lucky to be so close to some wonderful parks and forests, so there’s no excuse not to get out into the fresh air. Walking, cycling or jogging – whatever your preference, the fresh air and exercise will have the added benefits of clearing your mind, lifting your mood and helping you sleep better at night.
Aromatherapy for a mental detox
Aromatherapy is a wonderful way to support your body and mind. Essential oils are made from a variety of plants, and can be relaxing or stimulating, depending on your preference.
I use various combinations to create unique massage oils for some treatments. Warming ginger, grapefruit, coriander, lemon, peppermint, lime, eucalyptus, rosemary and tea tree all help to improve mental clarity, reduce fatigue and increase your energy levels, while a lovely back massage helps to ease tension from your muscles and a body scrub stimulates and rejuvenates the skin.
As a Tropic ambassador I also recommend Tropic’s Body Smooth Refreshing Polish, which is rich in essential oils such as peppermint, lime, eucalyptus and lemon. I use this in my own treatments, as well as having some available for you to try at home.
A challenge and a treat for positivity
Another way to keep your positivity levels high is to set yourself a challenge. It doesn’t have to be a physical one – although my challenge to myself will be to complete the ‘Couch to 5k’ this winter.
Your own challenge may be to complete a chore around the house you’ve been avoiding, such as repainting the living room or clearing out your wardrobe. Fresh new surroundings can be stimulating, while hitting your goals helps you feel a sense of achievement.
Or you might decide to learn something new, start a home learning course, join a gym or read a book. Everybody will have a different target in mind– the aim is to give yourself a goal that keeps you motivated and active through the winter.
Finally, book in a treat for yourself as a reward for completing your challenge. Even better, break your goal down into a series of stages and reward yourself every time you complete one. I recommend a lovely back massage, of course. Putting a treatment or two in the calendar will give you something to look forward to, as we continue on through the cold weeks of winter.
If you would like to book in for a back massage or other treatment over the next few months, or find out more about how aromatherapy can be used to lift your mood, then please contact me today.