Tips to Stay Healthy as the Seasons Change

As the seasons change, so do we. The amount of sunlight, daylight, temps, etc. effect our natural rhythms. We have an inner clock, also thought of as our biorhythms and circadian rhythms. 

This clock tells us when to wake up and when we feel tired to go to sleep. It also plays a role in metabolism, temperature regulation, hormone regulation, energy levels and our emotions. 

For example, a reduction of natural sunlight during the winter is a big factor that leads to mood swings. Less light=an imbalance in our body clock.

When everything is in balance and we keep regular eating and sleep schedules, the clock works great. The circadian rhythms or “body clock” are regulated by a group of nerves in the hypothalamus of the brain. This control center mainly responds to environmental signals such as light/dark, and temperature to be alerted when to release hormones, influence metabolism, sleep and mood. In traditional Chinese Medicine, there is a representation of our circadian rhythms through a 24-hour body clock that considers all seasons, physiological, emotional, and energetic components of a human being.

As the days are getting longer, the temps getting warmer, we tend to feel more in balance, and relaxed. We are still not out of the woods as there also tends to be more fluctuations in the temperatures. So it is important to keep your body warm with layers and continue to have soups, seasonal foods such as squash, sweet potatoes, root veggies, dark leafy greens, etc.

Late March is also a great time for a cleanse. You can check out our Cleanse tips here 

Here are a few ways to get in sync with the seasons:

1. Get enough rest: In Chinese Medicine as well as Ayurveda, they suggest going to bed by 10 PM. To unwind and prepare for bedtime, it is best not to engage with any technology.

When you consider the days prior to electricity and technology, humans lived by the cycles of the sun and moon….awakening with the sun and going to sleep as it got dark. Instead of going against the natural rhythm’s, try listening to nature and your body. Try dimming the lights, doing light yoga, taking a hot bath or shower and turning off technology to prepare for bedtime.

2. Spend time outdoors exposing your skin to sunlight….Great for getting a dose of vitamin D to keep your Immune System strong.
3. When you also awaken with the sun, it stimulates the hormone serotonin and cortisol that helps to increase heart rate, body temperature, etc. This helps to lift the spirits and awaken for the day.
4. Conscious Breathing: Take time each day to pay attention to your breath and practice deep, focused breathing. It will help to relax, rest and restore your energy. A simple exercise is the 4,4,4 breath…click link
5. Stay Well Hydrated: Drink ½ your body weight in ounces each day, herbal teas, broths, etc. Sipping on our nourishing veggie broths to go is another great addition as a daily wellness ritual to get more healthy liquids and nourishment. 
6. You can also incorporate hot baths before bed to keep your skin hydrated and moisturized. After your bath, try massaging your skin with unrefined sesame oil to help calm the nervous system and restore moisture to the skin.
7. And finally, try to shift your mindset and use this transition time to renew. Choose 1 or 2 new healthy habits. Be sure to pay attention to your daily rhythms, stay connected to nature….you can re-emerge from the cocoon of winter refreshed , renewed and ready for Spring!

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