The clocks have gone back

Well, it’s the end of October, which means it’s autumn, the clocks have gone back (we’re now on GMT) and the nights are noticeably drawing in.  This is the part of the year I really dread.  Lethargy prevails and it’s a struggle just getting through the day, when all you want to do is sleep, not to mention eat all manner of high calorie foods “for energy”.

Thanks to really working hard at losing weight and getting more active, this year I am heading into the winter a whole 3 stone lighter than I was last year, with much better eating and fitness habits and a determination that I will keep going to fitness classes even when my body just wants to hibernate.

Over the years since I understood and was diagnosed with SAD, it has been a journey of discovery.  It’s been really important to understand how different things seem in the winter compared to the summer, and also how much I can cope with, activity-wise.  Each year I seem to learn something new.

Coping strategies which I’m determined to keep to over this winter are around diet and exercise:

1)   Taking exercise for at least 30 mins every day.  Even better to take a break and go outside to get some daylight (as you can see by the photo, walking outdoors is a great idea on a sunny day - to get as much light as possible)

2)   If I need a powernap, then I will programme one into the day, but taking exercise should help me get through.

3)   Sensible eating habits (i.e. not skipping meals) and planning healthy snacks, such as nuts and raisins, fresh fruit, low fat yoghurt.

4)   Eating enough protein to feel full longer, and stave off the carbohydrate cravings

.5)   Planning foods rich in Omega 3 and essential oils such as fish, nuts, eggs which will help in the fight to balance my mood

6)   Drinking plenty of water and de-caffeinated drinks (going to TRY to cut down here, although it’s easier said than done!)

It's about being wiser with the choices I make now, so that when the darker months come along, the groundwork has already been done.  I hope to add helpful thoughts, ideas and recipes along the journey...