As the cold months roll in, everything shifts: the air grows drier, the days feel shorter, and the chill in the atmosphere starts to seep into every corner of life. Even though we are ready, and some even excited, for these changes, our bodies are not, which often results in our moods dropping, our skin becoming more sensitive, and the hair feeling more brittle. All these changes signal the need to step up our self-care routine, becoming not just a daily habit, but a way to maintain balance and protect your well-being as well. We’ve compiled a list of practical ways to help you feel (and look!) your best during the cold months.
Eat Foods That Keep You Warm and Nourished
You are what you eat, and in late autumn and winter, the foods you eat play a huge role in maintaining your energy and overall health. During this time of the year, we always feel drawn to hearty soups, roasted vegetables, and warm drinks, and that’s because your body is asking for comfort and warmth from the inside out. The right foods can help support your immune system during a season when colds and the flu are everywhere, so add seasonal vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and squash to your meals for a boost in vitamins and antioxidants. These nutrients help combat the oxidative stress that cold weather puts on the body. Hot herbal teas are another wonderful way to keep warm while staying hydrated, so try ginger tea for its immune-boosting properties or chamomile for a relaxing evening ritual.
Dress Up to Lift Your Spirits
In the colder months of the year, it’s easy to fall into a routine of wearing the same oversized hoodie and cozy leggings every day. While comfort is important, the way you dress can change your mood. If you’re feeling down, why not try picking an outfit that makes you feel confident and energized? On those dreary winter days, when the weather doesn’t inspire much, a pop of color, like a bright green or blue Irish knit sweater, can go a long way. Plus, you don’t need to sacrifice your comfort for fashion – such a knit sweater, like the ones from https://www.gaelsong.com/prod_detail_list/apparel-knitwear, will keep you snug and comfy while its beautiful patterns and eye-catching color make it an excellent choice for many settings. Even if you’re working from home or spending the day indoors, taking a few minutes to put on something that makes you feel good can boost your mood, energy, and self-esteem.
Give Your Hair Some Extra TLC
Your hair takes a real beating in the cold, becoming dry, frizzy, and static. To keep your hair looking healthy during this time, you need to start by moisturizing your scalp. Just like skin, your scalp can dry out, leading to dandruff or itchiness, and a nourishing scalp treatment or oil can help restore moisture and balance. It’s also important to minimize heat styling during the winter, as the air is already stripping your hair of moisture, and blow-drying or using a flat iron daily adds more damage. Instead, try some heat-free styling techniques such as wrapping your hair in a satin scarf at night, as it can reduce the frizz and keep those strands looking fresh without the heat. Don’t forget to switch to a more hydrating shampoo and conditioner, and do a weekly hair mask with nourishing ingredients like shea butter and argan oil for that extra burst of moisture.
Nourish Your Skin
Cold air sucks the moisture out of the skin, leaving it dry and flaky, so even if you already have a skincare routine, you need to upgrade it during winter. You might love your current moisturizer, but if you notice your skin feeling tight or rough, it is probably not enough to lock in the hydration. Wintertime calls for a heavier moisturizer, one packed with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides, since these create a barrier, helping the skin hold onto water. Another tip is to layer your skincare products: after cleansing, apply a serum rich in antioxidants to fight against the harsh effects of the cold, and follow it up with a rich moisturizer to seal everything in.