Day light savings time ends on the 28th of October. Most of us dread this time of year as it means less light and colder weather. We quickly feel the urge to curl up at home, drink far too many cups of tea, eat more sugary foods and do very little activity. All of these changes combined often lead to a change in our mood, we don't feel quite as cheerful, we tend to socialise less and generally feel unmotivated.



It doesn't have to be this way. Take control and feel good this winter!

In the months leading to summer we all hit the panic button as we realise we can no longer hide behind bulky winter clothing, we want to look good; leading in to winter you might not worry so much about looking good but what about feeling good? Do you not agree that your mental health is just as important as your physical health?

Of course it is, it's even more important. This winter work on feeling good!

How you wonder? It's not as difficult as you think. You just need a bit of discipline and motivation. Follow these actions to get you started:

Action 1: Get Moving Studies show that anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour of exercise every day can have a positive impact on our mood. When we exercise our body releases endorphins that help us to feel happy.

Action 2: Set Goals. Setting goals will give you a focus and keep you motivated. It is also empowering when you've achieve them. If you enjoy running, sign up for a race in the early spring and spend the winter training. Once you've set your goal write it down before the clocks turn back and put it somewhere where you'll see it every day; achieve your goal and be proud of your accomplishment when the clocks spring forward.

Action 3: Socialise: Exercise with your friends. It will make your sessions more enjoyable and exercising with someone helps us to put in a bit more effort. Even better join a new club and meet new people.

Action 4: Watch what you eat. Eat foods that are high in protein and fibre as they make you feel full, therefore less likely to reach for those sugary treats. Weight gain often leads to poor self- image; therefore the key to staying positive is maintaining or even losing weight.

Don't let this winter be a repeat of the last. Take action and feel good! Feeling good in the winter will help you to look good in the summer.