With lower temperatures and shorter days, you may notice a shift in your mood and energy, which is completely normal. The transition from warm sunny days spent outdoors to colder weather that makes you want to stay indoors can make it difficult to stay active and maintain mental wellness. At Ayana Active, we believe in the importance of living a balanced and active lifestyle, and we want to offer our tips for nourishing the mind and body, even when you can’t spend as much time outdoors.

Several studies, such as this one done by  News in Health highlight that Seasonal blues are a real thing. Factors such as reduced sunlight, colder temperatures, and wanting to stay warm inside can all contribute to lower energy. In these times, practicing self-kindness and focusing on your mental well-being is crucial in these times. Being in tune with how you feel and giving yourself grace is important and a powerful step toward maintaining balance.

REST AS NOURISHMENT

Oftentimes, rest can make us feel guilty. It’s easy to feel like we are not being productive when we are resting; however, rest can be a revolutionary form of productivity. If you are constantly working without allowing your mind and body to recharge, you are not giving your body the proper time to have a sense of calm. Resting can include meditation, journaling, or even light yoga. Intentional rest is integral to having a clearer focus and improved creativity, and you should honor this time rather than feeling guilty about it.

MOVEMENT AS A MOTIVATOR

For so many, movement and exercise are vital parts of their wellness routine that help both physical and mental health. This movement doesn’t have to stop when the season changes! Staying active indoors is very possible and can even encourage you to try workouts you’ve never tried before. YouTube is filled with home workouts in everything from yoga to zumba and even pilates.  

Keep in mind that consistency over intensity is key. If you’re able to keep your body moving regularly and enjoy what you are doing, the movement routine will become sustainable for your needs and lifestyle. Wearing activewear that makes you feel confident and supported like Ayana Active’s Pep Talk Collection, can inspire and motivate you to recognize the strength you have to keep moving during these colder months.

HOLISTIC APPROACH

Ayana Active believes in holistic wellness, which involves a routine rooted in movement, rest, and mindfulness. Being honest with yourself, giving yourself grace, and staying consistent with habits can help you feel balanced throughout these fall and winter months. Try some simple practices such as stretching in the morning or journaling before bed to enhance physical and mental well-being.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Always remember that mental health and self-kindness are ongoing practices. You can create a lifestyle filled with habits that work best for you, regardless of the weather. Embrace intentionally moving and resting to care for yourself mentally and physically.

Follow Ayana Active on Instagram @ayanaactive for more mental wellness tips during this winter season!