Develop a Morning Routine
Starting your day with something positive can really make a difference. A morning routine doesn’t necessarily have to take long – 10 minutes can be enough. Consider the following:
- Take the time to drink your coffee or tea while thinking about the things you are looking forward to this day. You can also write them down if you like.
- Enjoy a short yoga or stretching session to awaken your body and mind.
- Go outside for a quick walk to get some fresh air.
No matter what you decide, start your morning routine before checking your smartphone for any news or social media to avoid beginning the day with any distractions or negative news.
Exercise and Move
Regular exercise is an integral part of lipoedema and lymphoedema treatment, but it can be challenging to stay motivated in autumn and winter. Besides its benefits for your body, exercise also acts as a natural anti-depressant and lifts your mood. If possible, arrange fixed times for your activity and ask your family or friends to join you. It’s getting dark early, and it can seem more comfortable to spend a cozy evening on the couch. But even a short walk outside in the rain can help you feel more energized and positive.
Healthy Eating
Our bodies usually crave for warm and comforting food in the darker season. And there is nothing wrong with this! Most of us tend to eat more carbs and fats in these times: lentils, sweet potatoes, salmon, and nuts are healthy and nourishing sources of carbs and fats. Spices such as ginger, cinnamon, pepper, or cardamom are also perfect for meals on a chilly winter day. Besides sticking to healthy food, you should also try to focus on three meals per day and avoid any snacking. A cup of tea with some fresh herbs can be an alternative when you crave for sweets or other snacks.
Socialize
Even if it’s not for exercising, regularly meet your family and friends for activities that you enjoy. Whether you want to try cooking a new recipe together, watch a funny movie, or go for a hike with others, most things are more enjoyable when you do them with your loved ones.
All this is valuable outside the dark season, too. If you feel a benefit from any of our tips, consider sticking with them throughout the year.
You also might like
Get Support From Others With Your Condition
It’s important to know you’re not alone. Join our private community and feel empowered by connecting with other lymphoedema or lipoedema patients.
Share stories and tips
with others like youFind the right expert
for your conditionGet reminders
when you need a new compression garment
Don’t sit around and go through this in silence. Share your story. Doing that was a real eye-opener for me
Claudia Lymphoedema patient
