As we put the holidays behind us and settle down to the last few months of winter, even the best of us can get a little down.
The “winter blues” are brought on by shorter days, cold nights and lack of sunlight.
Follow these ten tips to help beat the blues and possiblly even look forward to the coming snow days as a cozy retreat.
Exercise
Exercise is not only good for the body, but for the mind also. Working out relieves stress and releases those "feel good" chemicals. It elevates your metabolism, giving you more energy for the rest of the day. Can’t find time for a workout? Try a short walk during lunch.
Food
It’s true you are what you eat. Processed and refined foods often cause mood swings and deprive your body of nutrients it needs. Opt instead for whole grains, fresh fruits, and veggies, which provide energy and stabilize blood sugar. Watch sweets and alcohol. Alcohol can act as a depressant, so keep it in moderation. Remember to drink plenty of water.
Sunlight
Yes it does improve your mood. If you can’t get outside during the day, you can try opening the blinds and sitting next to a window. Switching to “Full spectrum” light bulbs in your house is another option, as they mimic natural light and can have the same effect as the real thing.
Support
It’s easy to let those calls or lunches go by the way with the cooler temps, however don’t overlook social support at this time. Taking in a movie, an email or a quick phone call from a friend can do wonders as a pick me up. Winter is the perfect time to get out of the house and spend some time with friends, so forget about movie rentals for one night.
Embrace
Instead of always avoiding the cold and the snow—look for the best that it has to offer. Even if the cold isn’t your cup of tea, this could be the perfect time to try a new sport such as ice skating, hockey, or snowboarding. Keeping active during the cold will warm you up and boost your energy. And if you cannot bring yourself to try a new outdoor activity, then check out your local college. This could be the perfect time to take a class and meet new people.
Relax
Reading a book or listening to soft music can help soothe the negative energy. Enjoy a hot bath, light some scented candles, get a massage, or join a yoga class, all of which can alleviate stress. Meditation comes in many forms and is a great way to calm the mind and body. Find a quiet spot with no distractions to clear the mind. The mental exercise helps keep depression at bay.
Be Grateful
Start a Gratitude Journal. Sometimes people need to be reminded of the good things they have. Everyone can think of one thing they’re grateful for in a day. Try to think of five. They can be as simple as your health, a hot chocolate, a friendly phone call.
Get Physical
We’re not talking weight room. Having sex releases endorphins which are a feel good chemical. The more endorphins released, the less likely we are to experience depression. Another reason for engaging in sex, providing both parties put in the effort, is that sex burns around 140 calories in 20 minutes. In six months you could lose 6lbs. What better way to work out and keep boredom at bay.
If negative feelings continue to persist, seek professional help. It’s possible that it’s a deeper depression or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which may require therapy or medication. Light therapy has done wonders for many people with SAD. And, if all else fails, just remember these cold months will soon be over and we will be back to the warm sunny days again.
|
