The science behind getting outside is undeniable. Fresh air and natural light boost your mood, energise you, and even help regulate your sleep cycle. Outdoorsing — whether it’s a hike, a gentle stroll, or simply standing in the garden with your morning coffee — can lower stress levels, ease anxiety, and provide a much-needed break from the overwhelm of daily life. 

Outdoorsing also brings a host of physical benefits: 

• Improves Circulation: Walking and moving outdoors get your blood pumping, improving circulation and strengthening your immune system. This helps your body combat seasonal illnesses like colds and flu. 
• Burns More Calories: In colder weather, your body works harder to maintain its core temperature, helping you burn more calories than in milder conditions. 
• Boosts Vitamin D: Exposure to natural light, even on cloudy days, provides much-needed vitamin D, which helps combat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and reduces the winter blues. 
• Supports Cardiovascular Fitness: Regular walking helps improve heart health and overall cardiovascular fitness. 
• Invigorates Your Lungs: Breathing in good quality cold air out in the hills can invigorate you and improve lung capacity. 
• Low-Impact Exercise: Walking is gentle on your joints, making it a great way to stay active and keep joints flexible. 

But how does it actually feel? Let’s break it down. Before stepping out, the cold and gloom can feel like an insurmountable barrier. But once you’ve taken those first steps, something shifts. You’ll find your body warming up, your mind clearing, and your mood lifting. By the time you’ve finished, you’ll feel refreshed, calm, and proud of yourself for making the effort. 

We know the biggest hurdle to getting outside in winter is the weather. But with ACAI’s thermal, warm, and cosy outdoor wear, you don’t have to let the cold hold you back. ACAI’s range is designed to keep you comfortable and looking stylish, so you can focus on enjoying the outdoors. Layer up, step out, and feel the difference. Because when you’re warm and protected, getting outside becomes so much easier. 

Some of my favourite gear for cold winter walks are: 

• On The Go Bamboo Long Sleeve Tee: Layer up in this lightweight bamboo top that’s the perfect base to keep you cosy in the outdoors. The figure-flattering curved hem is ideal for wearing with leggings, while the round neck sits seamlessly under a snood. Thanks to the super soft, light material, the long-sleeved Bamboo Base Top is comfy when layered under a hoodie, fleece or sweater. And the naturally moisture-wicking, anti-odour, and antibacterial character of bamboo ensures you’ll stay cool and comfortable — even if you work up a sweat. 

• Thermal Skinny Outdoor Trousers: The ultimate cold-weather performance legwear for women who feel the cold or want to keep adventuring deep into winter. These trousers mimic the look of skinny jeans while providing warmth, shower resistance, and superb comfort. Designed specifically for the active and outdoorsy stylish woman, the stretchy softshell material is lined with thermal fleece, which feels like a hug and fits like a glove. With a durable water-repellent finish to keep you dry in light rain and quick-drying properties for heavier rain, these trousers are perfect for hiking, dog walking, climbing, or even braving a pub beer garden. Their four-way stretch ensures unrestricted movement, and they are as practical as they are stylish. 

• Merino Wool Beanie: More than your average beanie, this winter essential is made with soft Merino wool and fleece-lined for added warmth. The snug fit keeps your ears and head toasty while trapping heat. Styled like a classic fisherman’s beanie, it features a deep cuff, ribbed knit, and the ACAI logo to show off your Outdoorsing spirit. Perfect for completing your winter look. 

• Summit Seeker Fleece: Seek the summit in style with this plush Sherpa fleece, designed for colder climes. With a hefty weight of 450gsm, this fleece is built to laugh in the face of cold weather. The half-zip, drawcord hem, and shower-resistant hood provide a weatherproof fit, while the deep cuffs protect your wrists and hands. The oversized A-line shape allows for easy layering and pairs beautifully with our thermal trousers for ultimate warmth and comfort. 

January 20th, often dubbed “Blue Monday,” is said to be the most depressing day of the year. But we’re flipping the script and making it a day of positivity and connection. Join me for a group hike up The Wrekin in Shropshire. This 9km circular route with stunning views over the Shropshire Hills is the perfect way to boost your mood and wellbeing. It’s open to everyone — whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out. Let’s combat the winter blues together, one step at a time.

Set Your Outdoorsing Intentions for 2025! 

January is the perfect time to reset and create new habits. Why not set yourself an Outdoorsing challenge to keep you motivated? It could be daily, weekly, or monthly — whatever works best for you. 

To make it even easier, why not join my Strava group! It’s open to everyone and is all about supporting each other to stay active. This January, we’re challenging ourselves to 8,000 steps a day and 100 miles over the month. It’s a fantastic way to hold yourself accountable, share your progress, and celebrate small wins with a like-minded community.

So, let’s wrap up warm, step outside, and make January a time to reset, recharge, and reconnect with the outdoors. Whether it’s 10 minutes or a 10 km hike, every step counts. Let’s dare to roam life’s adventurous side — together. 

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