The dark mornings and shorter evenings can mean we all feel the effects of the October slump – here are some tips to beat it from Graham Low
HAVE you noticed that your energy levels seem to drop when October arrives?
The mornings are darker, the evenings are shorter and the warmer days of summer already feel like a distant memory. It is very easy to start feeling tired, less motivated and more tempted to stay on the sofa.
But feeling tired does not always mean you need to do less.
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Sometimes, the right habits can actually help you feel more energetic.
One of the first things to look at is sleep. Try to keep a regular bedtime and wake up at roughly the same time each day. Give yourself time to wind down before bed and try to avoid spending the last part of the evening scrolling on your phone.
Get some daylight too.
Even when the weather is not great, getting outside during the day can make a difference. A short walk in the morning or around lunchtime gets you outside and gives you some fresh air.
You might not feel like going for a walk when you are tired, but you will often feel better once you have done it.
Keep moving.
This does not mean you need to train hard every day. A walk, some gentle exercise or a short workout can be enough.
When we feel tired, it is easy to become less active. Then we move less, feel more sluggish and have even less energy. It can become a bit of a cycle.
Breaking that cycle with some movement can help.
Look at what you are eating and drinking too.
Skipping meals or relying on sugary snacks can leave you feeling tired later in the day. Try to eat regular meals with plenty of protein, vegetables and some healthy carbohydrates.
And do not forget water. It is easy to drink less when the weather gets colder, but staying hydrated is still important.
Finally, try to keep some sort of routine.
You do not have to completely change your life. Get up at a similar time, eat regular meals, get outside, move your body and give yourself time to relax.
Small habits can make a big difference to how you feel.
October does not have to mean less energy and less motivation. Sometimes you just need to give your body the basics it needs.
Good food. Good sleep. Fresh air. Plenty of water. And regular movement.
You might be surprised by how much better you feel.