Top Tips to cope with Winter

1. Get plenty of vitamin D. It is produced after exposure to sunlight, so get out in the daylight as much as possible. It can also be found in oily fish, meat, eggs and vitamin supplements so increase the intake of these foods in your diet.

2. Reduce your caffeine intake, especially during the afternoon and evening. Good sleep is important for maintaining emotional balance. Caffeine activates your brain and stimulates your bladder, not a good recipe for a good night’s sleep!

3. Review your diet. Eating healthy foods that are rich in fruit and vegetables can help regulate your mood. Empty carbohydrates and high sugar foods can affect your motivation and create lethargy and sluggishness. Sugary foods may produce a short-term energy boost, but when that wears off, a sugar crash follows!

4. Increase your natural serotonin levels. Serotonin is your body’s “happy” chemical. Exercise can boost serotonin levels and help to reduce stress. A brisk walk can go a along way towards clearing your head and helping you think more positively.

5. Socialise with friends and family. Humans are social beings and need personal interaction. A good chat and a reminder of just how much the most important people in your life mean to you, can make a significant difference to your frame of mind.

6. Start a new hobby or learn a new skill. Stretch your mind and create opportunities to feel proud of your achievements.

7. Tackle those tasks you’ve been putting off. Most people spend more time at home in the winter, so this is a good time to have a sort-out. De-clutter your home and you’ll find that your mind starts to feel de-cluttered too!