Did you know that a simple habit can put you ahead of 90% of people in your wellness journey? One habit can uplift your mood, protect your energy, and give you mental clarity that you so desire.

Believe it or not but there but this season is a time of bad moods and lack of motivation and energy. Seasonal blues are something that hits everybody, but with the right wellness habits, you can get back on track and get yourself ready for the festive season.

1. PRIORITIZE MORNING SUNLIGHT EXPOSURE: Did you know that when you don’t get enough sunlight, your mood-regulating hormones decrease?  Exposing yourself to sunlight every morning will help brighten your mood and uplift your energy. A few minutes of natural light can elevate your mood and increase alertness.

• MOVE YOUR BODY (EVEN IN LOW ENERGY DAYS): Movement is one of the best ways to boost our energy. It boosts endorphins and helps regulate cortisol and stress hormones. You don’t need to do anything intense if you don’t feel like it. You can take a 10-minute walk, do yoga or Pilates, or do some light exercise at home. Whatever works for you. Movement improves your mood instantly and keeps your energy stable throughout the day.
• EAT MOOD-BOOSTING FOODS: Your brain needs nutrient-rich foods to stay balanced during seasonal changes. Incorporate more foods with Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D. Additionally, whole grains and leafy green vegetables are beneficial for your health. Try to avoid sugar as much as possible, along with energy drinks and processed foods.

• STAY SOCIAL EVEN WHEN YOU DON’T FEEL LIKE: Seasonal blues usually make us want to stay at home all day and isolate ourselves. That isn’t a good idea. Go out with your girls, call someone you love, join a class or community. Connecting with people keeps your mind stimulated and your spirit lifted.

• JOURNAL THROUGH YOUR EMTIONS: Journaling about how you feel can be the thing that will kick-start your energy and get you back to your normal self again. Write out how you feel at the moment and tell yourself you can be better and you can get through this. Try prompts like this:
• What is making me feel heavier lately?
• How can I bring more light into my life?
• What small habits make me feel better instantly?
• What do I need that I haven’t been giving myself?

This will surely help you get back to work.

•  PRACTICE MINDFULNESS & BREATH WORK: Taking deep breaths actually helps you be calm and think straight. It helps you get yourself together and make the best decisions for your life

Try:

• 5-minute meditation
• Deep belly breathing
• Nature listening (even from a window)
• Guided grounding practices

These habits pull you back into the present moment when your mind feels heavy or foggy.

I know it seems hard, and right now you are in a slump and can’t do anything, but I assure you it is only for a moment, and you will get over it. I wish you the best in the festive season. GOODLUCK!