By Charlotte Horne
Because hibernation is for bears – NOT trekkers!
Let’s face it: winter cops a bad rap. It’s darker, colder, and somehow getting out of bed becomes a full body workout. Add a hot choc, a doona, and a Netflix binge into the mix, and suddenly your activewear becomes passivewear.
But here’s the thing: too much hibernation can leave us feeling flat, foggy and a little bit ‘meh’. Our bodies – and our brains – are made to move, explore and connect. Yes, even when it’s 8 degrees and your bed is giving you puppy dog eyes.
So, let’s flip the script on winter. Here’s how to stay well, warm and totally glowing through the chill – Coastrek style.
Soak Up the Rays (Yes, Even When It’s Cloudy)
Shorter days and grey skies can mess with your body clock and dim your sparkle. That’s because less light = less serotonin, the brain’s natural mood booster. Add low Vitamin D into the mix, and you’ve got a recipe for the winter blues.
In fact, studies show that up to 1 in 3 Aussies have low Vitamin D levels by the end of winter. Yikes.
Your wellness fix? Step outside wherever you can. Take a brisk walk at lunch, enjoy your coffee al fresco, or face the sun like the radiant goddess you are (even if it’s hiding behind clouds).
“There’s no such thing as bad weather – only the wrong clothing.” – Scandinavian wisdom (aka people who really know winter).
Warm Up the Fun Way
When the temp drops, often motivation does too. But staying still is a fast track to feeling sluggish and stiff. The best remedy? Movement.
A sweaty hike, a trail walk with besties, a spontaneous dance-off in the kitchen – all of it gets your blood pumping and warms your body from the inside out. Plus, movement boosts endorphins and helps fight off those winter blues.
Don’t feel like going hard? Start small. Stretch in the morning. Do 10 squats while brushing your teeth. Or go for a gentle walk and count how many dogs you see (bonus mood points if one’s wearing a jumper).
Eat for Energy and Comfort
Comfort food cravings? Totally normal. Your body’s working harder to stay warm, which means you’ll naturally want more energy-dense foods.
But instead of grabbing another choccy biccy (no judgement), try warming meals that actually fuel your body and boost your immunity.
Think:
- Slow cooker stews packed with root veg
- Roast pumpkin with tahini drizzle
- Bone broth with noodles and greens
- Immune-supporting teas like lemon + ginger, peppermint, or turmeric lattes
And don’t forget: your gut is your second brain. Keep it happy and it’ll keep you thriving through the cold.
Breathe in the Good Stuff
You weren’t meant to marinate in indoor heating 24/7. Stale air, blue light, and zero movement? That’s a recipe for fatigue, poor focus and a crabby mood. Ain’t nobody got time for that!
Fresh air, on the other hand, is a game-changer. Studies show that spending time in nature improves mood, lowers anxiety and even boosts immune function.
So whether it’s a full-blown hike or a quick lap of the block – pop on your puffer, step outside and take a big breath of that crisp winter air. You’ll be shocked how much better you feel. Voila!
Hike With Your People
This is our favourite one (obviously). A good hike = instant mood lift. A hike with friends = next level joy. Connection + nature + movement is the ultimate winter trifecta. You’re releasing oxytocin and dopamine (the holy trinity of feel-good hormones), all while soaking in scenic views and fresh air.
Need some inspo? Join a Coastrek training walk, message your hiking group chat, or explore a new coastal trail. Accountability makes it easier – and way more fun.
“Nature is cheaper than therapy – and has better views.”
Bonus Winter Wellbeing Hacks
- Cold hands? Keep a pair of gloves in your hiking bag at all times. Bonus points if they’re touchscreen friendly.
- Feeling blah? Journalling for 5 minutes in the morning can reset your mind. Try writing three things you’re grateful for.
- Sluggish digestion? Add ginger to your meals or sip on warm water with lemon before breakfast.
- Can’t get warm? Pop your clothes on the heater before getting dressed (yes, it’s indulgent – you deserve it).
This Winter, Don’t Just Survive – Thrive
Layer up, lace up and lean into the magic of the season. You don’t need a bikini body or a beach day to feel amazing – you just need fresh air, good people and a reminder that you were made to move.
So don’t hibernate – radiate.
Need a reason to get hiking? Register for a Coastrek event today. You’ll move your body, boost your mood and raise funds for mental health. Because hiking with purpose is the warmest feeling of all.
