As we are headed into the winter season (yikes!), it’s time to prepare for the cold weather, as well as the lack of motivation and energy that tends to comes along with it.
There are many different changes you can make in your daily life, as well as your diet, that can help eliminate the terrible winter blues and keep you going for the rest of the season:
Eat healthy fats – increasing your uptake of healthy fats, such as Omega-3’s and -6’s, can help improve your mood, focus, concentration, and even boost your energy. Foods high in healthy fats include avocados, nuts, seeds, chia, hemp, coconut oil, and more.
Always exercise when you can – working out, playing sports, or at least staying more active, can help naturally increase your level of endorphins, also known as your “feel good” hormones.
Partake in winter activities – instead of spending your time avoiding winter and wishing it were over, try taking a more positive approach! Jump in the snow, go skating, take part in holiday celebrations, or even go on a winter hike.
Indulge in some delicious, but healthy comfort food – make some hearty meals with squashes and root vegetables, or nice warm soups with healthy, organic produce that can keep you warm on those cold winter days!
Avoid the not-so-healthy comfort food – when you start to feel down and tired, it’s easy to reach for a chocolate bar or a bowl of chips. Try avoiding foods that are high in saturated or trans fats, as well as ones with refined sugars. These can promote weight gain, mood swings, lack of energy and focus.
Try this delicious cauliflower soup recipe that will provide you with plenty of nutrients while you stay nice and cozy during the cold weather:
In a sauce pan, add 2 tbsp. olive oil and sautee 1 clove of garlic (chopped) and ½ a white onion (chopped) on medium heat for 5 minutes. Add ½ a head of cauliflower flourets, salt and pepper to taste, and 2 cups of low-salt vegetable stock (or water) and allow to simmer for 25 minutes, or until cauliflower is fully cooked. Remove from heat and add 2 cups of coconut milk and 1 tbsp. butter (optional). Emulsify until it is smooth and enjoy!
