Stay Fit and Inspired…A Guide to Seasonal Self-Care

Whilst some of us find tranquillity in the cosy comforts of winter, others struggle with the shorter days and harsher weather that causes the all-too-common ‘winter blues’. We caught up with Gleneagles personal trainer, Kim Scott for some hints and tips on how to keep on top of your physical and mental health this season.

STAYING ACTIVE and ensuring that our activity levels don’t drop during the colder Months are important, just 30 minutes a day of brisk walking can raise your heartbeat and get the blood flowing around the body, a single workout alone will immediately increase the level of neurotransmitters such as endorphins, serotonin and dopamine in the body. Also known as happy hormones, these chemicals will improve our mood and make us feel uplifted throughout the day.

What we eat and drink can have a large impact on our body. STAY HYDRATED – it might seem simple but it’s a habit that is often forgotten. ‘Drinking a large glass of water as soon as you wake up is a good way to replenish your body with the hydration that has been lost overnight’ says Kim.

EAT HEALTHILY – superfoods may have taken centre stage within wellness, but it’s important to remember that not one single superfood will compensate for unhealthy habits. Make sure to get into a good routine of consuming your 5-a-day, an easier way to achieve this is through liquids such a nourishing soups and smoothies. A healthy soup or smoothie will contain up to 3 of your 5 a day and is quick and easy for those who are on the go. If you are looking for your health kick during your visit to Gleneagles be sure to visit the Garden Cafe where you can find anything from superfood salads, smoothies the colour of the rainbow and hearty soups.

When cooking at home try and include superfoods in some of your own recipes, it needn’t be powders or supplements you don’t understand. Easily accessible ingredients and foods such as citric acid, berries, ginger, garlic and turmeric combined with black pepper are great. Studies have shown that combining multiple ingredients together can aid absorption into the 14 body resulting in increased health benefits.

Many people are not aware that they do not use the full extent of their lungs whilst breathing’ says Kim. BREATHING EXERCISES can provide great benefits for the mind whilst also strengthening the lungs, opening smaller airways is proven to mitigate negative thoughts and reduce tension.

CONNECTING WITH NATURE is another top tip to keep your mind and body in check, ‘as little as 20 minutes a day surrounded by nature can make for an incredible shift in mood and perspective.’ Where better to do this than during an exploration of The Glorious Playground? With over 850 acres of estate to roam you can rest assured our luscious grounds and serene surrounding landscape is the place to implement this simple health advice.

REST, REST AND REST – our minds and body can take on a lot of unconscious strain and tension throughout the day – our bodies deserve plenty of rest and recovery. Adequate sleep is essential for every process, which in turn impacts our physical and mental health. Some related tips from Kim include – ‘be consistent and aim to go to bed at the same time each night. Remove/switch off electronic devices such as TVs, laptops, and smartphones two hours before bed. Avoid large meals, caffeine, and alcohol before bed, and finally be physically active during the day.’

For those seeking guidance in achieving a balanced lifestyle, personalised training can be a game-changer, tailored to fit busy schedules and individual preferences. At Gleneagles, we offer personal training sessions for those looking to enhance their winter wellness. Whether you opt for personalised training or implement Kim’s top six tips, your winter health and wellness are well within reach during your stay at the Glen.