By: Arnica Lande
This time of year, darker days and colder weather force many of us into new routines. The shift in schedules can look different for everyone, and while work may remain constant, our priorities in other areas of our lives might change. Maybe you trade your bike for your skis, the backyard BBQ for Thai delivery, or the weekend camp trip for a weekend of Netflix (and chill?). Maybe you hit the snooze through your morning workouts because it’s dark outside, and your bed is cozy. I mean, let’s be real, the Hygge trend gives us every reason to cuddle up and love a comfy nook. As we enter colder weather, lean into the seasonal changes and find healthy approaches to your evolving lifestyle.
If you’re feeling more lethargic lately, you’re not alone. Colder temps force us inside, and it’s okay to listen to your body and slow down. When you’ve had a busy summer, or year in general, that can be a challenge. Slowing down can feel less productive, but don’t fight the instinct to spend an evening inside with a book or cook a tasty meal. Productivity is relative, and when you prioritize your health and wellness by doing so, who’s to say you aren’t benefiting yourself or the people around you?
As we go from spending time outdoors to more time inside, we also want to get our daily dose of Vitamin D. A naturally occurring vitamin present in the sun’s UVB rays, Vitamin D has many benefits including fighting infection, decreasing inflammation, and boosting mood. Coloradans have the advantage of living in the sunniest state in the nation, so we’re not starving for this crucial vitamin. Since there’s no lack of recreational activities throughout the winter (including happy hours on the patio outside), we’re able to soak up those rays more often than others. However, along with spending time in the sunshine, the Harvard School of Public Health recommends a Vitamin D supplement to ensure you’re getting the proper dosage. You can find it at almost any local grocer, and then make it a point this winter to add to your daily vitamins to lift your mood and fight off infection.
We know that with a lifestyle change, finding a new routine or sticking to some parts of our old one can be good for our mental health. If you’ve experienced a lack of motivation to get your regular workouts in on darker days, then outside support may be what you need. Join the Fierce45 Gratitude Challenge in November to not only hold yourself accountable but give back to a good cause, too. Pay $10 to join and if you take 12 classes in 30 days (that’s just 3 classes/week), you’ll be entered to win 2 free months of classes to keep you going during those winter months. The best part? All proceeds are donated to Urban Peak, and with each initial $10 donation and challenge completion, Fierce will double the contribution. More reason to roll out of bed and hit that 6 am class, since you won’t only be benefiting yourself, but others, too!
Instead of letting the shift in weather rule your mood, find ways to love it (and yourself) throughout the season. A healthy dose of outdoor fun in the sun and snow, your Fierce workouts, and all the at-home Hygge vibes, allows for a feel-good season.
