Caring for our mental health and well-being over the winter months can be hard—it gets dark early in the afternoon, the holidays can be an extremely stressful time, and on top of all of that, it seems like the sun and its warmth disappear for almost three months.
Here at UNC Lineberger Cancer Network, we are taking steps this winter season to take care of ourselves and each other. Our team has compiled a list of activities that help us take care of our bodies and our minds during these harsh months. We hope this list may help you in the trying months ahead.
- Take time to stretch and exercise, add some in some mindful meditation if you feel up to it.
- Get quality sleep.
- Drink lots of water.
- Not only does water help your body process nutrients and expel harmful waste, it also can help maintain a normal blood pressure and keep your skin healthy.
- Connect with family and friends.
- Try out new hobbies.
- Always wanted to try knitting? Now is the time! There are tons of hobbies out there just waiting to be given a try.
- Be nice to yourself.
- Treat yourself to a gift every now and then. Give yourself a small pep talk in the mirror in the mornings. Remember, you are enough!
- If you want ice cream, get ice cream.
- This tip asks you to be kind to yourself and occasionally give into those ‘unhealthy’ cravings. Sometimes the mental boost is worth the extra calories!
From our team to yours, we hope you take care of yourself this winter season, and we look forward to seeing you in our 2024 lectures.