Whether you live in California or Coastal Canada, winter in North America means the sun sets on or about the time that the average work day ends; oftentimes it’s dark even before dinner; and unless you’re a shift worker, it’s pitch black hours before you head to bed.
In fact, winter solstice occurs on December 21st at 16:28 Universal Time, which is a solar time standard that reflects the average speed of the Earth’s rotation. Science speak aside, our nights are longer than our days.
So, what does this mean to you?
Well, this time of year, and in particular, December 21st, brings with it more hours of darkness than any other time of year. It means more cozy, more comfort. It is a time of year that calls for extra layers and foods that aren’t quite as crunchy such as stews, soups and chilli. And, it can mean that getting your butt to the gym in the dark isn’t quite as easy to do.
At Bodylogix® headquarters we’re here to help you march out of bed – even if you can still see the moon. We’re here to say, don’t let the fewer hours of daylight drag you down. You’ve got this!
Here are five ways to stay motivated this winter:
1. Partner up! A friend or workout buddy will help to keep you accountable. Meet at the gym or carpool, and do your heart as well as the earth a favor.
2. Join a gym! Of course, this isn’t for everyone, but it can help you feel motivated. Good energy is contagious. Trust us, just get there and before you know it, you’ll be on your second set of deadlifts.
3. Set a reminder in your Smartphone.
3:00 p.m. – Don’t forget, you promised yourself a walk tonight – whether it’s snowing or not!
6:00 a.m. – Wake up! Be awesome.
4. Try a new form of fitness. Take a once-per-week kickboxing class or meet up with your trainer on Tuesdays. There have been plenty of articles written on the value of investing in experiences. Enrolling in a Zumba class will likely be a heck ova lot of fun, not to mention you’re more likely to stick with something you’ve invested in.
5. Shout it out! Tell your mom. Write it on a piece of paper and stick it on the fridge. Tell a stranger! Post it on social. Announcing your intentions has a way of solidifying your actions ensuring your goals get executed. Who knows, maybe by writing “I will do 50 push-ups today!” on your cubicle wall, you’ll manage to create motivational osmosis.
Even better, maybe your enthusiasm will catch fire, sparking an after-office ski club. Skate the river trail if it’s available or meet up on the slopes. Winter is the perfect time to bundle up and enjoy the ‘Great Outdoors’. Think fresh powder, winter camping or tobogganing with the family – all fantastic ways to keep the winter blues at bay.
So, enjoy more hours of stargazing. Reward yourself with a new Netflix series or eat heartier than usual, but do so after you’ve snowshoed or hiked with your family pet. After all, with Thanksgiving just behind us in both Canada and the US and holiday feasts on the horizon — now more than ever — it’s critical that you (we all) stay committed!
