It may be the time of year that you want to stay indoors but getting out and about is something that we should all do in the winter months. Of course, we need snug warm clothing such as Aran sweaters from Shamrock gift but getting outdoors particularly during the winter can do wonders for our mental health.
During the winter there are many reasons why we can tend to feel a little more depressed, lethargic or anxious than in the warmer months. Partly the lack of vitamin D that we get from the sunlight is at a lower level as the days are darker, and the dark days can also affect our moods.
By getting outdoors and into nature our bodies receive a boost – it is well known that being around nature can help with negative feelings and help to calm feelings of anxiety and stress. As well as this when we exercise, the body releases feel good chemicals known as endorphins which can help us to feel happier and more motivated.
In the UK we are lucky that we have a lot of natural beauty around us, even in the cities there are some fantastic big parks to enjoy walking around, as well as the fact that we have a variety of different landscapes. The hilly mountainous landscapes of the Peak District or the Brecon Beacons, the beautiful coastlines such as Cornwall and Devon, and lots of ancient woodlands which are ideal for a winter walk like the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire.
