7 Ways to Avoid Winter Burnout
I'm not about to quote statistics at you, but the Winter months have been scientifically proven to have an impact on your mood, even to the extent where people genuinely suffer from SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). With the sun almost always hidden behind clouds, it's hard to get as much Vitamin D as your body needs, which can make you feel lethargic.
Which makes it even more important to make sure that you don't burn out. And these are some of my favourite self-care ways to make you feel a bit more human.
1. Treat yourself.
Whether this means a fresh blow dry or a gorgeous manicure like my gel manicure from Blow LTD's Beauty Bar in Debenhams Manchester, sometimes superficial treatments like these can be a great way to boost how you've been feeling. If funds are tight, I'd suggest a facemask at home and your favourite series on Netflix. It all helps.
2. Be Human.
Often when I'm having a low day, even the simplest of tasks like having a shower seem like I'm being forced to hike up Everest but honestly, it's amazing how fulfilling the tiniest of tasks can make you feel. Force yourself into the shower and make sure you've got a delicious smelling shower gel to entice you the more!
3. Think about what you're eating.
When it's cold and grey outside, warming and carby foods tend to be the perfect solution - but they really don't do anything to help your mood. As tempting as it might be to eat an entire share bag of Maltesers and a share bag of crisps and an entire dominoes, food like this can make yourself feel worse. Obviously, have a few Maltesers if you want them, just make sure you're eating a proper breakfast, lunch and dinner around them. Don't substitute meals to binge on rubbish.
4. Talk to someone.
Text your friend, message your mum, call your sibling. As a complete introvert (albeit socially trained), human contact can be so helpful! I don't think I'd be able to live without a housemate simply because I'd never talk to anyone! You don't have to get all deep, just talk to someone - even if it's menial small talk. It all helps.
5. Set out small goals.
I'm currently on a break from University so have far too much time on my hands and know full well that if I don't have a game plan or a to-do list for each day, I'll often find myself back in bed, watching Friends. So I'd suggest creating a small to-do list - even if it's silly things like "do laundry" or "wash my hair", having small and achievable goals can be oh-so-helpful.
6. Plan your life.
Burnout can often be a result of two things - doing too much or getting to a point where you can't do anything. So it can be helpful to have a few things scheduled in your calendar - whether you've arranged to see a friend or you have a gym class planned, book in things but make sure you still have plenty of time for yourself around them.
7. You can say no.
If you're at the point where you need a weekend to yourself, cancel your plans. The biggest way to avoid burnout is recognising what you need as a person. And everyone is different - where an extrovert needs to recharge off of people, an introvert needs that time alone to recharge. Recognising where you sit on this scale is oh so important and so helpful.
If you're interested in Blow LTD - you can book appointments on their app here , find them on Instagram and on Twitter.