5 Wellness Rituals for a Better Winter

Love or hate the season, this winter lockdowns and limitations on daily life are taking a toll.  Whether we're working too much or too little, almost everyone's work-life balance is off track.  Self-care is suffering, monotony can kill motivation and winter weather doesn't help.  Since it appears we won't be back to old health routines any time soon, we suggest it's time for some new ones.  Here are five wellness rituals to boost your energy and immune system. 

Think about your tech time 

While we hear lots about the benefits of digital detox, let's be realistic.  In the pandemic, technology is a lifeline. Thank goodness for binge TV, games, classes and connections, and like or loathe, Zoom meetings serve a purpose.  Devices 'on' every waking moment and mindless screen time do not. Instead of letting tech take over, take charge. Make it a habit to plan your use. 

Make appointments with yourself to step away from your screen.  Set times when you don't check email, social media or texts, especially at the start and end of your day.  Consciously plan your online time too.  Think ahead about what to watch – maybe a documentary instead of random stuff that pops up. Plan movie night and Facetime coffee dates. Sign up for a course.  Whatever you choose to do or not do, make sure your technology rituals serve you well. 

Disconnect to Reconnect

While managing tech use has benefits, a complete unplug has even more.  When you disconnect from your devices, you’re more in touch with yourself and what matters to you.  And just think of what you might do with the extra time and the perhaps forgotten pleasures of no-tech pursuits.  Page through a beautiful book or old album, or build something – a snowman, cocktail creation, or fix-it solution for home or office. Imagine the possibilities.  Studies show that people who unplug regularly enjoy better sleep, deeper personal connections and greater productivity back on the job. 

Look Forward 

While we can’t control vaccine rollout or the shape of the new normal ahead, we can take charge of our thoughts.  The pandemic has taught us what we value, what we miss, and what we don’t.  So make it a weekly ritual, daily if you can, to remind yourself of what you treasure and make tangible plans to make room for more of it in your life.  Some may be possible soon, some not for a year.  That’s not the point.  It’s having the vision that’s vital. Psychologists agree hope is key to health.  While memories of days past can bring joy and solace, it’s our dreams and plans for the future that keep us going.   

Savour the Small Stuff

A good place to start is dinner at the table, not in front of the TV. Focus on the food, the flavours, the space, the company, the conversation.  If you’re eating alone, enjoy memories of shared meals in past.  Harvard Health experts tell us this focused slowdown to decompress at day’s end aids digestion, nutrition and weight loss.

Make Rituals Regular

While every single healthy step counts, it’s repetition that builds resilience.  By definition, something we do regularly with intention, rituals signal our brains that we’re moving from one mode to another.  They help us step back from the fray or step out of a funk. Wellness rituals do wonders for work-life balance.  Make it a habit to assess and plan yours.  

This Wellness Moment is from Health Plus Insurance. From our family to yours, take care and stay safe. If you're a Health Plus plan member, remember you have access to free, professional Wellness Resources.