There is no doubt that the cold weather, gloomy skies and short days affect both mood and motivation.  At this time of year I find it helpful to consciously live in the present accept that my energy levels may be lower – I would love to train to run 10k this year but have decided I will do this in the Spring rather than start now when I know my motivation to go running in ice and snow will be low!  However there is no doubt that getting out for a walk every day boosts my mood.

Here are THREE tips for  staying motivated and beating the winter blues.

Tip one – WALK WITH OTHERS

If you book into a walk or plan to meet somebody else, you are far more likely to step out whatever the weather. I often get asked, do you still go out in poor weather? My reply is simple…. Yes as long as its safe!

Walkers often  tell me that they were thinking of cancelling and are glad they did not succumb because walking with others is the perfect mood up lifter! You can choose to chat or simply walk with the group in the knowledge that you are safe and the route has been planned for you! Those suffering from seasonal affected disorder (S.A.D)can feel less sociable than normal so pre planning a walk can help to break that cycle and get you outside.

Fresh air, physical exercise  and chatting/laughing with others will all work their magic and leave you energised and smiling for the rest of the day!

TIP two – ENGAGE WITH NATURE

In Japan, nature therapy is on prescription and they have Forest clinics where studies have shown that just being in the trees affects not only mood but physical conditions like blood pressure too.

Trees send out natural oils called Phytoncides which are designed to protect them from attack but also help our immune systems because they are anti viral, anti fungal, anti bacterial and even anti inflammatory. That explains why smells like pine and lemon have always been used for disinfectants! There’s nothing like breathing in the scent of trees knowing that as you do so they are taking in the carbon dioxide that you breathe out too – read more about the benefits of trees in this article by the WOODLAND TRUST

Of course another benefit of being outdoors is that you top up your vitamin D levels even when the sun is not blazing. Lack of this vital vitamin is thought to add to feelings of depression and anxiety.

Tip three – ADD VARIETY

Try to get outside every day but mix up both the speed of the walk and the location – enjoy different landscapes and how the weather can change things by the day.

Brisk walking is also known to provide massive health benefits so add some bursts of speed or a hill or two to boost cardio fitness. Ideal exercise for a chilly day and mixing it up will help keep you motivated.

So lace up your walking shoes and step outside for some winter walks that put a smile on your face too.

JOSINE BAINES

Lead Instructor and Business Owner

WALX TONBRIDGE & T’WELLS