Ladies Winter Wellness with Lily Ella | Lily Ella
Whilst Winter can be the most magical time of the year, those long, dark evenings and chilly temperatures bring us a new set of challenges to face, and like most things in life, it’s better to be prepared.
As we age gracefully, we’re no longer seemingly immune to cold weather. Whether it’s the lack of sunlight, the bustle of looming Christmas deadlines, or the plummeting temperatures - Winter often leaves us feeling lacklustre and running on empty. But, no matter your age, a few simple lifestyle changes can go a long way when it comes to combating those pesky Winter blues. Keep reading our guide to Winter at Lily Ella, as we talk you through our top wellness tips and how simple-yet-effective pick-me-ups can go a long way to putting the spring back in your step.
Fuel your feelings with food
If you’re prone to feeling low around Christmas time, consider upping your protein intake and eating protein-rich foods such as nuts, fish and quinoa. Implementing more mood-boosting foods packed with essential proteins into your festive diet is a proven way to lift your spirits through the Winter. The natural level of amino acids these foods contain, increases the level of mood-lifting neurotransmitters in your brain, which can help with seasonal depression (SAD) and get you feeling a lot more like yourself in no time.
Whilst we agree, fish, nuts and quinoa don’t sound like Winter-ready food options at all, but stay with us! Why not create a Christmas nut roast, with quinoa, cashews and almonds, like Jamie Oliver’s Nut Roast recipe. Or, glaze a salmon fillet in a seasonal cinnamon glaze? The possibilities are endless. Pair your protein with an extra serving of carbs, such as herby potatoes, bread, or delicious fresh pasta, as carbs can also increase serotonin levels.
Layer up
As the temperature drops, we run the risk of becoming unwell if we don’t properly take care of ourselves. If you’re heading out for fun-filled festivities with your loved ones, whilst it’s simple enough for us to grab a Winter coat and go, wearing two or three thinner layers of loose-fitting clothing is actually a lot warmer than a single layer of thick clothing. At Lily Ella, we have plenty of layering pieces such as Italian woven scarves, thick-marl hats and beautiful cashmere shawls to help keep the winter chills at bay.
However you choose to keep warm - there’s no need to compromise on style. If you prefer to brave the outdoors in a beautifully tailored coat, then we’ve also got a number of Winter-ready styles to choose from in our wonderful Winter catalogue. Including our staff-favourite beautiful Tatum Cape, as this luxurious reversible cape looks dramatic and elegant, whichever side you choose to wear. Built with neck buttons and an integral tasselled scarf, this sophisticated tartan-check jacket provides its own layers - with a loose-fitting cape design, creating room for Lily Ella customers to layer up with comfortable knitwear, such as our beautiful Gabriela Sweater.
Switch up your bedtime routine
The best of us are guilty of taking an earlier night’s sleep as the evenings grow darker and colder, in a last-ditch attempt to feel more energized in the morning - but, this method could have a negative impact on your energy! In fact, according to sleepfoundation.org, it’s more impactful to keep a regular bedtime routine, as a switch in sleeping patterns could make you sluggish, and you may end up experiencing lower energy levels, which could contribute to your overall winter slump.
For women aged 65 and over, the recommended amount of sleep is anywhere between 7-8 hours, so it’s imperative to get a cosy, bedtime routine well underway. Limit your screen time, invest in some comfortable warm pyjamas, soft Alpaca bed socks and bring out the heavier tog duvets and blankets to help wipe out that dreaded Winter fatigue. All of these cold-weather comforts work to help you focus on the charm of winter, instead of the cold and shorter days that winter brings.
Embrace the cold!
While it’s tempting to coop-up indoors when the temperature dips, studies show that even brisk, short walks can elevate your mood, whilst providing endless benefits for both the body and mind. Try to embrace the season and populate your diary with dinners out with friends, theatre nights and gifting-evenings to host. Even if your seasonal plans consist of only taking the grandchildren to see the twinkling Christmas lights, or a quick walk around the neighbourhood to visit neighbouring friends, mindfully spending time outdoors is a vital way to combat winter woes.
Be mindful of your natural limits, but give yourself a gentle nudge from time to time this Winter to get yourself out there and do things. Put dates on your calendar that you really look forward to, as well as mapping out mindful moments to populate the days-off in between.
Merry Christmas, love Lily Ella.
However you choose to enjoy the festivities, here at Lily Ella, we wish you a very merry Christmas, a happy new year and a wonderful Winter filled with wellness. If you’re still looking for the perfect gift for a loved one, take a quick glance over some of our festive gifts guaranteed to put a smile across the faces of all the wonderful women in your life.
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