Winter isn't always as magical as it looks in photos of snow-covered cabins.The change of seasons can also be associated with fatigue, a weakened immune system, and low spirits...
Why do we feel especially tired during this time of year? Kipli has looked for answers and is sharing some tips to help you better embrace this season—often the least favorite of the year.
The arrival of winter brings change for both nature and people. As the environment becomes harsher in terms of temperature, it demands extra effort, and our bodies require more energy. Energy. It’s a rather vague term, and its interpretation varies from person to person.According to scientists, energy loss can be measured—regardless of individual lifestyles—based on a few criteria.Michel Lejoyeux, head of the Department of Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine at Bichat Hospital in Paris, cites several factors that contribute to our low spirits and feelings of physical and psychological fatigue.
Lack of sunlight and vitamin D
General practitioners often prescribe it—that little vitamin D capsule—without knowing whether there’s actually a deficiency. Don’t skip it, because the reduced sunlight in winter affects the neurons that regulate emotions, and those neurons depend on vitamin D. Taking vitamin D and getting some daily exposure to sunlight can give your emotional state a little boost.
A Sedentary Lifestyle
Let’s be honest. Who wants to go for a run in the rain at 5°C? And at night, too. In winter, we’d rather be on the couch than out exercising.Did you know that 6 minutes of brisk walking increases your sense of well-being and improves your mood by 30%? You don’t need to join a gym if you’re the type of person who cringes at the thought of breaking a sweat.A lack of physical activity plays a major role in how mentally and physically tired you feel. Taking a short walk during your lunch break will help you feel more energized.
Disruption of the circadian rhythm
It’s not just a winter phenomenon—it’s a consequence of the pandemic and remote work—and the rhythms of daily life have changed. Catherine Lacrosnière, a nutritionist, discusses this disruption to our rhythms and a state of internal desynchronization. Despite the time change—which requires us to adjust each season—we shouldn’t hesitate to observe ourselves and figure out whether we’re morning people or night owls. Maintaining a steady rhythm despite any external changes is essential to feeling your best. So where can we find our energy?
Go out into nature and recharge!
A study from Germany, conducted by the University of Wuppertal, demonstrated the influence of color schemes in intensive care units on patients’ well-being, health status, and medication use. The results: well-being and health improved by 62.7%. With a new color scheme in the patients’ surroundings, medication use decreased by an average of 30.1%. Blue and green, in particular, had a notably positive effect . Have you ever noticed the effect on your well-being after looking at the ocean or taking a walk in the woods? A trip to nature with an awareness of colors—even in winter—can improve your daily well-being.From the perspective of alternative medicine, Muriel Neveu, a naturopath for seven years, says we can all better prepare for the winter season.
Preparing Your Body in Advance
She agrees with Catherine Lacrosnière that any change—even a positive one—requires energy and time to adjust. So, to make the most of it, it’s best not to reach the transition date with a sleep deficit and a weakened immune system.In the days leading up to the switch to winter time, take care of yourself so you don’t let fatigue build up and can adjust smoothly to the new time.
Listen to your body, its needs, and its messages
Listening to your body means being aware of the signals it sends you. Go to bed as soon as the first signs of tiredness appear: yawning, itchy eyes, heavy eyelids… Let yourself drift off to sleep, create a peaceful atmosphere around you, and why not treat yourself to a relaxing moment of reading?
Developing Good Habits for a Good Night's Sleep
Certain details make all the difference, and this is especially true when it comes to promoting good sleep quality. These include airing out your bedroom and keeping the temperature below 20°, eating a lighter dinner, putting away screens before bed (certainly one of the hardest things for people to do these days), and placing a few drops of lavender essential oil on a handkerchief near your pillow to promote a good, restful night’s sleep.Of course, you’ll have already chosen excellent, breathable natural bedding and fresh, organic sheets to help you transition into winter with even greater peace of mind ;) .