Unhealthy habits are easily formed during winter as we snuggle up in the home to ward off the blazing cold. The weather drives out every ounce of energy we have to stay healthy at this time of the year. Picking up terrible habits consciously or otherwise is awful for your mental and physical health and should be avoided by all means.
Winter shouldn't leave us feeling worse off when spring comes. The cold weather is a perfect excuse for people to prevent themselves from exercising and eating correctly. You can always be at your best by avoiding the following habits, which in turn guarantees an increase in immunity and general outlook.
Habits to avoid
Sleeping excessively
Sufficient sleep is essential for a healthy lifestyle; however, engaging in marathon sleep sessions does more harm than good. Winter gives us the perfect reason to lie in bed for longer hours than necessary as we tend to enjoy its coziness.
Research has shown that excessive sleep can result in an increased risk of diabetes and heart diseases. So it's best to avoid prolonged hours during this winter and maintain a balanced bedtime routine.
Eating More of Comfort Food
Healthy eating habits are ignored during winter because people consume more comfort foods containing excess sugar or fat while discarding fruits and vegetables. These foods leave you feeling sluggish, feeling and weighing heavier, and contracting some heart-related diseases.
To avoid this habit, stock the home with healthier food such as whole wheat pasta, nutritious vegetables, winter fruits, and proteins.
Ignoring Exercise
The chilly wind and constant burst of snowfall can sabotage our intention of engaging in regular exercise. People feel lazy and easily talk themselves out of it. Ignoring daily exercise can lead to weight gain, increases anxiety, and outlines symptoms of depression.
You should engage in fitness activities with family or friends, walk outdoors or on a treadmill, conduct yoga to help ease your mind, and allow your body to maintain an active physique.
Drinking Less Water
We feel cool and rarely sweat or perform exhausting activities during the winter, which implies that our body is hydrated. We don't thirst as much as we do during spring and summer, thereby we end up drinking less water. As we develop the habit of drinking less water, it results in dehydration, constipation, or indigestion.
However, drinking water during winter is effective in topping our body fluids and helps cope with infections such as cold and flu. Boiled water mixed with a slice of lemon is an option if you want it warm.
Excessive Alcohol Consumption
A study has shown that taking a tiny amount of alcohol like rum and whiskey dilates the body system and enhances the blood flow that helps us feel warm during winter. However, it's worth checking the amount of alcohol you consume, as excessive consumption can lead to complex liver and kidney complications. Endeavor to be moderate by taking not more than a drink or two a day.
Staying Indoor Always
The winter season shouldn't be an excuse to stop you from having the fun you desire. The windy cold makes us spend more time at home where it is warm. However, this makes us lazy and inactive and exposes us to germs, allergens, and mold where the house is not adequately ventilated.
Avoid this habit by getting out in the sun; the fresh air and sunshine help keep your spirit up, play outdoor games, go on evening walks, and try opening your windows and doors regularly for fresh air.
Conclusion
These habits tend to creep up on us whenever the temperature drops and, if allowed, can pose some significant behavioral changes. Notwithstanding, being proactive before the season kicks in can set you up for a better ride through the winter.