Health & Fitness -
recommended
Keeping Warm in Cairo this Winter
written by
Hannah Cooper
Ah, it’s that time of year again and winter is upon us just like that.
As a result of the shorter days and colder nights, many experience what is
referred to as the ‘winter blues’. Lethargy, mild depression and a general lack
of motivation are all common symptoms.
As a result of the shorter days and colder nights, many experience what is
referred to as the ‘winter blues’. Lethargy, mild depression and a general lack
of motivation are all common symptoms.
This response to seasonal change can be difficult to deal with if one
does not have the know-how to cope. Thankfully, we have a variety of simple tools
within our reach to help rid us of the blues and be on our way to a happy,
heartfelt winter season.
does not have the know-how to cope. Thankfully, we have a variety of simple tools
within our reach to help rid us of the blues and be on our way to a happy,
heartfelt winter season.
Get Some Sun
This might seem like a no-brainer but can long be
forgotten when cuddling up under a blanket indoors feels oh so good. Exposure to sunlight
releases neurotransmitters in the brain that affect our moods. Go for a walk or keep your window shades up during the day to let in more natural light. Even simple things like sitting
near the window while you’re at the café helps, with minimal effort. The point here is to bond with that wonderful vitamin D giver as much as possible.
forgotten when cuddling up under a blanket indoors feels oh so good. Exposure to sunlight
releases neurotransmitters in the brain that affect our moods. Go for a walk or keep your window shades up during the day to let in more natural light. Even simple things like sitting
near the window while you’re at the café helps, with minimal effort. The point here is to bond with that wonderful vitamin D giver as much as possible.
Exercise
The word alone makes many moan but once the habit is in place,
it’s a fantastic remedy with benefits aplenty. Exercise is instant energy
and metabolic booster and will develop a stronger immune system and a clearer mind, amongst other benefits. We recommend
restorative yoga for its gentle approach and ability to be done in the comfort
of your own home. Throw down a towel (or mat) and check out the selection of
online classes at YogaGlo.
it’s a fantastic remedy with benefits aplenty. Exercise is instant energy
and metabolic booster and will develop a stronger immune system and a clearer mind, amongst other benefits. We recommend
restorative yoga for its gentle approach and ability to be done in the comfort
of your own home. Throw down a towel (or mat) and check out the selection of
online classes at YogaGlo.
Eat Fresh
There’s something about these winter months that leave many
craving simple carbohydrates (like white bread & sugar) that do nothing more
than actually kill your energy levels and your moods. Instead of falling for these cravings, incorporate seasonal
fruits and veggies like tangerines, pomegranates, radishes and leeks. Along with
plenty of water and grain-based rice and bread, the body and mind will respond
with greater concentration and an increase in energy.
Don’t Skimp on Sleep
Just like other animals, our bodies naturally
demand more sleep during the winter months. For those with busy schedules, time management can work wonders. Set
yourself a goal. By being consistent with your sleep and wake time, your body
gets the hint and will follow the cycle. If you’re lucky, catching a 10-20
minute power nap in the afternoon can also reap rewards. You know your body
best so listen and respond accordingly.
demand more sleep during the winter months. For those with busy schedules, time management can work wonders. Set
yourself a goal. By being consistent with your sleep and wake time, your body
gets the hint and will follow the cycle. If you’re lucky, catching a 10-20
minute power nap in the afternoon can also reap rewards. You know your body
best so listen and respond accordingly.
Love Yourself!
Loving
yourself, with a treat thrown in there every now and then, is the most important factor when it comes to your wellbeing. This
can manifest itself in a variety of
ways and even when times are hectic, a little goes a long way. Book a massage
or a dinner date with friends. Around the house, the addition of wintery scents
can provide comfort: arrange cloves, cinnamon bark and orange peel on a baking
sheet. Bake for an hour or two on low heat and the smell will permeate the
house quickly. Additionally, essential oils, in the bath or applied directly to the skin, can be helpful. For
example, bitter orange is a great mood-lifter. To cure drowsiness, try out
peppermint and for any congestion, tea tree works wonders. If you’re looking to
purchase oils, check out the reasonably priced selection at Nefertari.
yourself, with a treat thrown in there every now and then, is the most important factor when it comes to your wellbeing. This
can manifest itself in a variety of
ways and even when times are hectic, a little goes a long way. Book a massage
or a dinner date with friends. Around the house, the addition of wintery scents
can provide comfort: arrange cloves, cinnamon bark and orange peel on a baking
sheet. Bake for an hour or two on low heat and the smell will permeate the
house quickly. Additionally, essential oils, in the bath or applied directly to the skin, can be helpful. For
example, bitter orange is a great mood-lifter. To cure drowsiness, try out
peppermint and for any congestion, tea tree works wonders. If you’re looking to
purchase oils, check out the reasonably priced selection at Nefertari.
For more health & fitness articles on Cairo 360, click here. Wrap up warm, Cairo!
recommended
Arts & Culture
Featured Article
The Coptic Museum: The History of Egypt to the Tunes of Psalms of David
arts & culture cairo museums +4
Health & Fitness
Featured Article
Egyptians in the 2024 Summer Olympics
Egyptians in the Olympics Olympics +1
City Life
Featured Article
Weekend Guide: Bazar by Sasson, Memo, The Cadillacs, Heya Bazaar, Dou, Nesma Herky & More
Concerts The Weekend Guide +2
Arts & Culture
Featured Article