During the winter, it is important to do things that can help us to relax and feel calm – it is a time of year that many people can feel stressed with the Christmas rush and the many pressures that we can feel at this time of the year, as well as sadness that Christmas can bring for many people.
It is also a time when the levels of daylight that we receive are at their lowest, so our brains can then be affected by this lack of sunlight making us feel low in mood and less alert and positive than we might be in the summer.
Taking the time to look after yourself and your own mental wellbeing at this time of the year is really important – there are lots of activities that can help with this, from snuggling up with a good book, to doing crafts and hobbies that are good for the brain such as knitting. Knitting kits like this www.woolcouturecompany.com/collections/knitting-kits are a great way to get what you need to create your own blankets, scarves and jumpers too!
One of the main things that can be really helpful for your mental wellbeing is getting out and spending time in nature. Although the weather may not be great, going out and being a part of the natural world can really help to lower your stress levels and boost your mood, not to mention the fact that exercise is also a great mood lifter!
Wherever you live in the UK, you are sure to have some beautiful spots to take a walk in nearby. The winter woodlands are enchanting at this time of the year, and a lovely place to spend some time reflecting as you walk. A coastal walk is a great way to blow away the cobwebs of the brain and you are also likely to be rewarded with some fantastic views over the sea, as well as the sight of the wildlife that inhabits these areas.
Make sure that you wrap up warm before you go, and you might also want to take a flask of tea or soup to keep you warm and hydrated as you walk.