Does Daylight Savings have you in a funk? Does it have you going to bed at 8:30pm and waking up at 5am? Just me?

This time of year is filled with so much to look forward to, and so much to do. But sometimes, this season also reminds us of loss, things we thought we’d have by now but don’t, and people we miss. With the time change, the nights seem longer and the days seem shorter. This season is especially important to tend to yourself and take care of your body and your soul. Don’t know where to start? Start here:

1. Warm baths/showers in the evening help us to feel comforted and sleepy in time for bedtime. This warmth helps support high quality sleep by modulating the body temperature.
2. Help your body feel well by eating foods high in Vitamin C and Vitamin D. Root vegetables (potatoes, carrots), broccoli, cooked fruits, and peppers and a good place to start. Vitamin C helps our bodies regulate hot and cool temperatures. Vitamin D is a GREAT vitamin for overall mood and wellness. Feeling sad—check your Vitamin D levels. And Zinc.
3. Tired earlier? Go ahead and sleep! Since the sun is setting earlier, if you feel tired at the end of the day, listen to your body and take rest early. Chances are you’ll also wake up earlier than normal, when the sun starts to rise. You’ll get an early morning start on productivity. Maybe you can use the extra 30 minutes to read your favorite book, or do a daily devotional.
4. Try to get moving first thing in the morning. Doing some yoga, cardio, or a strength routine will not only set your day off on a positive start, but also help increase overall movement for the day, as well as boosting your mood and dopamine, the reward chemical in the brain. Better yet—take your walk outside! Getting 30 minutes of sun a day will greatly increase your mood and overall wellness (helllllooo Vitamin D!).
5. Nourish your body throughout the day with things like nuts, fruits, and lean proteins to ensure proper nutrition and vitality.

What else would you add to this list? Customize it to you! For me, its rereading old book favorites and watching an obscene amount of Hallmark Christmas movies. What would you add to this list?

You Got This.