When the temperature drops and winter blues set in, staying healthy and motivated can be challenging. For a new mum in her 40s, finding the right balance between self-care and managing daily responsibilities is crucial. Here’s how strength training, cardio, and the 16:8 intermittent fasting method have become game-changers in my journey.
Strength training for energy
Juggling the school run, cooking, and endless responsibilities of motherhood can be overwhelming. Integrating strength training into my routine has been transformative:
- Enhances energy to manage parenting and perimenopause demands.
- Releases endorphins even during short workouts, improving mood and motivation.
- Learn more about exercise benefits for new mums.
Shredding lockdown pounds
During lockdown, I gained a few pounds due to overindulgence. Strength training, cardio, and intermittent fasting helped me shed them and feel more vibrant:
- Strength Training: Builds muscle tone and boosts metabolism.
- Cardio Workouts: Enhance fitness and burn calories.
- Intermittent Fasting: Regulates eating patterns and supports weight management. Read about intermittent fasting benefits.
Supporting each other
Exercising together as a multicultural family strengthens our bond. Our Body Pump sessions have become a “date day,” combining fitness with quality time:
- Connection & Support: Strengthens emotional bonds and fitness goals.
- Quality Time: Breaks from daily responsibilities for shared focus on health.
- Shared Achievements: Celebrating progress together reinforces the bond.
Defying perimenopausal blues
Strength training helps combat winter blues and perimenopausal symptoms:
- Mood Improvement: Regular exercise alleviates mood swings.
- Combat SAD: Physical activity helps manage seasonal affective disorder.
- Explore more winter fitness tips.
Bedtime routine
A fixed bedtime routine regulates circadian rhythms and stabilises mood:
- Consistent Sleep Schedule: Regulates melatonin and cortisol.
- Stress Reduction: Improves sleep quality and mental health.
Gym connections
Group fitness like Zumba keeps me motivated through winter. David Lloyd Newcastle’s community provides emotional support and a sense of connection:
The benefits go beyond physical fitness, social interaction and shared energy are vital for combating winter isolation.
Blue Monday Melancholy
Turning Blue Monday into a celebration of strength can combat post-holiday blues:
- Workout Motivation: Exercise provides a natural mood boost.
- Endorphin Rush: Vigorous workouts counter seasonal gloom.
- Consistent Sleep Schedule: Supports circadian rhythms and mental health.
- Strength Training: Boosts energy and mood, essential for parenting and perimenopause.
- Intermittent Fasting (16:8 Method): Supports hormonal balance and weight management.
- Vitamin D: Critical during winter; consider supplements.
- Group Exercise: Offers emotional support and motivation during winter months.
Share your experiences or ask questions in the comments below! For more tips on staying fit and healthy, check out my 50 in 50 Challenge posts and join our community of wellness enthusiasts.
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Saffron and Cyrus is a Newcastle-based family lifestyle blog, covering health, wellness, days out, travel, reviews, recipes and more from our family life.
The blog is written by new mum over 40, Aranda, with input from hubby H and son, Little C.
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