Self care is especially important during the winter months. Short days deplete our spirit and cold dry weather depletes our skin, lips and throats. It is a set up for colds and flu, which become a threat during winter months.
What to do? Treat yourself to uplifting and happy smells. Some essential oils may help. Try lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) or rose (Rosa damascena) or peppermint (Mentha piperita). Make a room diffuser or an inhaler. Try your favorite essential oils in a roll on perfume.
Some essential oils such as Tea Tree (Maleleuca alternifolia) or Manuka (Leptospermum scoparium) are antiseptic and kill germs.These can be rubbed into your hands in hand cream or released into the air in a room diffuser. Knock down germs before they get to you.
Exercise regularly. Work out, walk your dog, ski or skate, or try indoor sports. Enjoy the outside even in the cold. Bundle up and enjoy the invigorating air.
Sleep regular hours. Ignore all those voices in your head that remind you of all the chores you could accomplish if you only stayed up until midnight (or later). It is easier to sleep during the long dark hours of winter, so take advantage of the darkness. Enjoy the luxury of a warm bed. Put a little lavender on your pillow to help you drift off.
Eat regular meals. Resist the Mama Bear urge to eat sugar and sweets in order to prepare for hibernation. After all, most of us don’t sleep through January, February and March as the bears do. Drink plenty of water, as the air is drier in the winter. Treat yourself to lovely hot teas, or warm up a cup of cider with cinnamon.
Remember that winter is a time of quiet and a time for rejuvenation. Keep warm, enjoy your friends, and reward yourself with time alone in a satisfying quiet activity. Pamper yourself. You will be rewarded by a surge of energy when spring finally reappears with its warmer weather and longer days.