JOURNAL #28 - Getting Outdoors in Winter

One big advantage about needing to walk our dogs is that it takes you outside into whatever winter weather is being thrown at you that day. No observing from the safety of the indoors. Today it started with heavy rain and wind which suddenly all died down leaving a peaceful stillness.

The first part of winter I think is easier to cope with as you embrace the cosiness of being indoors, watching the last of the leaves fall from the trees, the novelty of wrapping up warm when venturing outdoors and having the excitement of preparing for December festivities. But in the new year it can be harder to enjoy this season which seems to go on for ages.

Experiment with some new Winter outdoor rituals:

• Get outside for 10 minutes first thing in the morning – it helps regulate your circadian rhythm, boosts your mood and helps get your brain firing

• Try a lunchtime walk across the fields – it could help boost your productivity in the afternoon and helps with digestion

• Have a weekly “weather doesn’t matter walk” – free yourself from the maybe tomorrow trap, you’ll come home pleased with yourself

So, put on some warm clothes (try one of our fleece tops) and get outside. You can’t beat the freshness of the cold icy air to make the skin feel alive. Getting outdoors is good for the soul and helps you fully appreciate being warm and snug indoors.