Chill ways to stay active and motivated this winter
As the temperature drops, it can be tempting to stay indoors and cosy up under a blanket. However, staying active during the cold months is crucial for maintaining physical and mental health. Fortunately, there are plenty of practical ways to keep moving, even when it’ s chilly outside.
Prioritise physical activity: It’ s easy to fall into an idle lifestyle during winter, especially when it’ s too cold or wet to head outdoors. However, regular physical activity is key to boosting your mood and energy. Whether it’ s a morning jog or walk, a yoga session, an online gym session in your living room or dancing to your favourite music, movement can go a long way to help combat the winter blues. Exercise triggers the release of endorphins, which are natural mood boosters. It also helps regulate your sleep and keeps your body feeling energised.
Mindfulness and meditation: Holistic activities |
like mindfulness and meditation can complement |
physical |
exercise. |
These |
practices |
help |
reduce |
stress, |
improve |
mental |
clarity |
and |
enhance |
overall |
wellbeing. |
Find |
a |
quiet |
space, |
sit |
comfortably |
and |
focus |
on |
your |
breathing |
or |
follow guided meditation sessions available online. |
Creative hobbies: Winter can be the perfect time to rediscover old hobbies or try something new. Whether it’ s painting, knitting, baking or writing,
hobbies offer a sense of accomplishment and joy. Getting creative can be a welcome break from work and can boost your mood. It also helps you develop new skills, keeping you mentally sharp.
Social activities: Winter can be a lonely time as we tend to hibernate and spend more time indoors. Staying connected with friends and family can help you get through the cold months and keep you motivated. Even if you’ re not able to meet in person, try scheduling regular video chats or phone calls to stay in touch. Social interactions, even virtual ones, can prevent feelings of loneliness and remind you that you are part of a larger community.
Stick to a routine: When winter disrupts your normal rhythm, sticking to a daily routine can help provide structure. Set a consistent wake-up time, mealtime and bedtime to regulate your energy levels. A solid routine can create momentum, even on days when you feel sluggish.
Embracing the winter months with an active, healthy lifestyle doesn’ t have to be daunting, expensive or complicated. With a bit of creativity and motivation, you can find plenty of ways to keep moving and stay healthy. The key is to tap into activities that you enjoy and can easily incorporate into your daily routine. So, layer up, get moving and embrace the winter season with a healthy and active lifestyle!
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Bonitas Member Magazine Issue 2 / 2025