For those who have to suffer through the cold, dark winters of the Northern latitudes, the ability to stay positive and vibrant is a challenge. Chiva-Som's Naturopathic Physician, Dr Jason's firm belief and passion is in facilitating a more healthy lifestyle through health education and empowerment of the individual to pursue their personal health goals. Through extensive research and experience gained treating international guests at the award winning Chiva-Som wellness resort Dr Jason has brought together five simple yet profound ways of supporting our physical and mental health to combat the winter blues:

1. Enjoy a morning cup of hot coffee or green tea (without the addition of sweeteners). These beverages contain polyphenols, which are plant compounds that have been shown to exert a variety of positive influences on physical and mental health. Also, the caffeine gives that little extra boost needed on those cold and rainy winter mornings.
2. Consider a daily dose of Vitamin D3. The majority of Europeans are found to be deficient in Vitamin D. This vitamin, which is essentially a “pro-hormone” in the body, plays a role in many aspects of maintaining health, including immune function, bone health, energy production, and deficiency has been linked to conditions such as S.A.D. (Seasonal Affective Disorder). However, before reaching for the bottle of high-dose Vitamin D, individuals should request a simple blood test from their trusted physician in order to determine the appropriate supplemental dose for their current health status.
3. Staying active during the winter months is essential for maintaining higher energy levels and positive moods. Research continuously shows that physical activity acts as a natural anti-depressant, helping to keep those dreary feelings away.
4. Light therapy is a proven technique for reducing the winter blues, and can be used regardless of Vitamin D levels. If individuals have trouble waking in the morning, a light box alarm clock can be used to simulate the rising of the sun, providing a gentle way of supporting the body's natural circadian rhythm (sleep-wake cycle). This will, in turn, ensure better sleep quality, which promotes positive moods and energy throughout the day.
5. Maintain a healthy diet, packed with nutrient-dense foods. Vegetables contain an abundance of essential nutrients that are necessary for supporting energy and moods. Omega 3 fats found in fish, plant oils, nuts and seeds, are not only healthy for the heart but also support brain function and help to reduce the risk of depression.

-ENDS-

ABOUT CHIVA-SOM

Chiva-Som Hua Hin was Asia's first comprehensive wellness resort, providing proven transformations towards optimal wellness. Nestled in seven acres of tranquil grounds, it's a beachfront resort dedicated to revitalising the mind, body and spirit (represented by its tri-part logo). Western practices and Eastern philosophies are brought together in a wellness resort which provides services for guests to develop healthy habits and lifestyle transformation; it has been given recognition by readers and industry experts alike as one of the most outstanding wellness resorts in the world since its launch 22 years ago. The resort has received the prestigious Green Globe certification which recognises its commitment to the world's highest environmental standards in all levels of operation. Since its launch the resort has been dedicated to operating as ethically and sustainably as possible. Their dedicated CSR team has implemented many initiatives, policies and practices for energy efficiency and conservation, waste water treatment and reuse, fresh water conservation, waste minimisation and recycling, air quality management and environmentally friendly product usage.

A few recent awards include:

• 'Best Global Wellness Resort of the Year' - Spa China Awards 2017
• Top 5 of the Top 20 Destination spas, the number 1 Destination spa in Asia' - Condé Nast Traveller's Readers' Travel Awards 2017
• 'Top 10 International Destination Spa' -  Travel & Leisure World's Best Reader's Choice Awards
• 'Top 3 wellness retreats worldwide (runner up)' - Traveller's World Magazine (Germany)
• 'The World's Best Destination Spa' - Condé Nast Traveller magazine (UK edition) Readers' Travel Awards 2016
• 'The Best Overseas Hotel (Top 10)' - Voyage Magazine's 2016 Best Value Awards (China)
• 'Asia's Best Wellness Retreat 2016' and 'Thailand's Best Wellness Retreat 2016' - World Spa Awards 2016 (UK)
• 'The Best Overseas Hotel (Top 10) 'Best International Small Hotel' and 'Best International Spa Hotel'- International Hotel Awards 2016
• 'Best Wellness Spa + Health Management resorts around the World' - Conde Nast Traveller China Reader's Choice Awards 2016
• 'Best Luxury Wellness Resort, Thailand 2016' - Global Brands Magazine Awards 2016
• 'Best Destination Spa'- Condé Nast Traveller Readers' Travel Awards 2016
• 'Best Destination Spa'- Condé Nast Traveller Spa Awards 2015
• 'Top 25 for Best Leisure Hotels & Resorts' for Smart Travel - Best in Travel Poll 2015
• 'Winner of Intel-AIM Corporate Responsibility Award (IACRA)' - Asian Forum on CSR Awards 2015
• 'Thailand's Best Wellness Spa', 'Asia's Best Wellness Spa' - World Spa Awards 2015
• 'Innovative Spa or Wellness Cuisine ', 'Green Spa' - Thailand Spa & Well-being Awards 2015
• 'Best Boutique Chic Resort' – Fodor's 100 Hotels Awards 2014
• 'Best Overseas Health & Wellness Property' for 7 consecutive years by Luxury Travel Magazine

For further information on Chiva-Som please contact Kate Faulkner (kate@bacall.net), Kerry Skinner (kerry@bacall.net) or Flora Gandolfo (flora@bacall.net) at Bacall Associates, tel: +44 (0)20 7630 2880