While we may not be quite as affected as other animals, our species still reacts to colder conditions with the same urges to eat more and do less. That’s right, your strong desire to eat something hearty and curl up in front of the fire is nature taking its course… but that doesn’t mean you have to oblige. Here are 5 simple things you can do to keep your body in shape and your energy levels up this winter.

#1. Give Your Immune System Some Attention

In order to make it through winter unscathed and have enough energy to stay motivated, you need your immune system functioning at its best. There are plenty of natural ways to give your immunity a boost, including taking Viralex for everyday immune support. If a cold does hit, knock it on the head quickly with Viralex Attack; it’s unique formula gets to work within two hours, helping to stop your ills and chills from becoming anything worse.

#2. Don’t Give in to Your Cravings

Foods that are high in fat, sugar and starchy carbohydrates are comforting, but that doesn’t mean you should give into your cravings just because it’s cold outside. It’s easy to let comfort take priority when it’s dark and miserable, but maintaining your healthy eating habits will not only give you a head start come summer time, it’ll give your immune system the boost it needs too.

Eat for health, not for comfort and you’ll feel great throughout the winter months. That means more low fat protein (grilled chicken and fish) and healthy carbohydrates (green leafy vegetables), and less sugar, starchy carbs and bad fats. If you need an extra helping hand kicking your cravings, try Good Health Sugar Stop or Carb Blocker.. 

#3. Get a Good Night’s Sleep

Sleep has a plethora of health benefits, one of the main ones being its influence on the immune system and energy levels. Without sufficient sleep, your immune system begins to suffer, making you more susceptible to colds and the flu. When you feel awful, it’s really hard to motivate yourself to get up and go, so give your body the rest it needs at night and it’ll keep you going during the day. 

#4. Beware of Changes in Your Mood

Part of your body’s natural reaction to the change in season is a change in mood. There’s a reason we feel happier (and more motivated) during summer – without as much sun, our vitamin D levels start to dip, affecting our serotonin levels and in turn, our happiness. These winter blues are known as Seasonal Affective Disorder; the condition varies in severity depending on the person, but boosting your vitamin D and 5HTP levels can help to reduce its effects.

#5. Keep Moving 

Finding the will power to exercise during winter is often easier said than done, but staying active during the colder months will do wonders for your immune system, your mood and your motivation – it’s much harder to start again than it is to keep going. Changing your routine to suit the weather can make it easier – try moving your workout indoors if you can’t face going outside for a run. Join a gym; try yoga; you could even stream an exercise video online – that way you don’t even need to leave the house! Just be sure you spend a little extra time warming up, as it will take a bit longer for your joints to loosen up in the cold. If you need further convincing, read up about the benefits of exercising in winter here.

If you struggle with cold hands and feet, it could be a result of poor circulation. People with poor circulation feel it even more in winter, but exercising can help to get your blood pumping. Taking vitamin E and Ginkgo can also help.

The sun may have set on summer, but it doesn’t need to set on your motivation. Try a few of the tips above and tackle winter head on – you’ll feel better for it.