Winter’s Energy

So we made it through the holidays. Maybe we missed a few workouts, maybe we added on a few pounds, maybe we let our todo list go. We thought January would find us kicking into high gear. But You didn't and You're not alone!

Yes we all have the best of intentions to start the New Year with healthier habits and with the energy and time to tackle it all. But the reality is, for most of us we are in the midst of Winter. It’s colder, it gets dark earlier and our mood is off, as is our motivation.

I’m still adjusting to the climate in Northern, Virginia, as it’s our first winter here.

Winter energy is real, it’s not just in your head. Your body is running on a different seasonal operating system.

We are getting less sunlight because the sun is weaker and we are not spending as much time outside. This gives us that “blah” feeling and less motivation. It also makes us more tired.

Vitamin D drops which can affect our mood, immunity and our muscles. 

Your sleep clock changes, which makes it harder to get up in the mornings or maybe you find yourself groggier. You also have increased Melatonin production. That's a natural hormone produced by the brain's pineal gland, that regulates your sleep-wake cycle(circadian rhythm) by signaling to your body that it's dark and time to sleep.

Cold weather tightens your muscles, so your muscle stiffness increases and your circulation is not as great. You also have a bigger risk for injury with this one, if you do not warm up properly before a workout.

Your immune system demands go up. With your body directing energy to the increased demand, you may feel more fatigue, or your cold/flu lingers longer. I am personally struggling with this one.

Naturally we are moving less! 

Embrace the inevitable. Maybe slowing down and allowing yourself some Grace during these months is the real key. Oh and LOTS of Water!! :)

Try shorter workouts, gentler formats that soothe your Mind, Body & Soul. Try to increase your protein and think “warm” meals. Maybe check out some of B4’s Favorite Book Club Reads and cozy up on the couch with a blanket.

Bottom line is: Allow yourself some Grace these Winter Months. 

Each Season asks your Body for something different. Winter is asking for Rest, Warmth, Nourishment and Gentle/Thoughtful Movements.

I’m currently sitting in my favorite chair, by my fake(electric) fireplace with a glass of wine, and allowing myself to enjoy this cozy moment. Because before we know it, the Cherry Blossoms will be here and the birds will be chirping and it'll be time to embrace another Season.

Cheers to Staying Happy, Healthy & Fit and maybe we give a little extra focus to “Healthy” this month.

Stay warm! xo, M