How to use color and heat to beat the winter blues

"3 practical tips for using light and heat for well-being

Start my day habit stacking with heat — I’ve stacked three habits to create a great start for my mind and body. First, when I wake up in the winter, it’s not light out. So, my routine warms me up to energize my mind and body for the day. While we sleep our bodies cool down, so I wake up, turn on the lights and drink hot water with lemon first. Lemon water is so beneficial — it aids in digestion, prevents oxidation, provides vitamin C and potassium, and helps prevent kidney stones. Next, I’ll go into the sauna, which provides me with two types of light and one element of heat. Science proves that the longer you can keep your body temperature elevated when you’re awake, the better you will feel, stronger immune system will be and the more energy you will have. Then I stack some exercise, such as strength training or a walk or run.

Watch a sunrise — I love to watch the sunrise because it is beautiful, but I also love knowing research shows how sunlight is beneficial for stimulating serotonin and the circadian rhythm and reducing stress. Sunrise offers beneficial red light, which is a grounding energy that can return the mind and body to joy and happiness.

Infrared sauna sessions when I can’t get outside — As the days get longer, it gets harder for me to do the things I enjoy the summer, one of which is exercise. I love to run, but in the Midwest the weather sometimes makes that impossible. Research has shown that infrared sauna can also provide a passive cardio workout.

Read the complete article available at Thrive Global!

Reflection:

What others methods do you know of beating the winter blues?

#WinterBlues #Mood #Self-care

If you liked this article, please check out "Easy Tips For Fighting the Winter Blues"

Also, check out my article on "Preparing Yourself for the Emotional Challenges of SAD and the Winter Months"