Winter is the perfect time to reflect on what your mind, body and soul need. Self-care doesn’t fall under just one facet – it’s about nourishing yourself in every aspect.
During the winter months, you may need to pay yourself some extra attention. Whether you’re combating a physical issue like dry, itchy skin, a mental struggle such as seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or need to find ways to embrace the season and boost your spirits, we’ve got you covered.
Dry skin
Dry skin is common in the winter months when the humidity level drops. When the air outside is cold and dry, the water in your skin evaporates more quickly— making your skin feel and look dry and flaky.
Follow the tips outlined below to battle winter dryness and get your skin looking and feeling flawless.
Seasonal affective disorder
According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, SAD is thought to relate to seasonal variations in light. A “biological internal clock” in the brain regulates our circadian (daily) rhythms. This biological clock responds to changes in season, partly because of the differences in the length of the day. This is why SAD generally occurs during the winter months – hence the ‘seasonal’ in seasonal affective disorder. People with SAD experience mood changes and symptoms similar to depression.
SAD has been linked to a biochemical imbalance in the brain prompted by shorter daylight hours and less sunlight in winter. As seasons change, people experience a shift in their internal clock that can cause them to feel…sad.
To combat SAD, check out the tips outlined in the infograph below.
Embrace the season
Think of winter as something to be enjoyed – not something to be endured. Celebrate the things you can only do during the winter months. Skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, winter nature walks or building a snowman. Find joy in the small things!
Winter brings a sense of cosiness, so embrace those drinks, fires and fuzzy blankets – now’s the time!
