Beat The Winter Blues!

Wrap yourself warm and get out. Get comfy and sit by the window or a nice lamp to read an inspiring book, or try any of the following tips.

1. Get up and get moving. It is a proven fact that exercise releases “feel good” endorphins into the blood stream. Even the worst day begins to look a little better from the perspective of a healthy body. Strive for at least thirty minutes of physical activity most days of the week to build energy and good feelings.
2. Watch what you eat. You truly are what you eat. Fatty foods may taste good at the time but they increase our waistline. That’s no fun. Consuming too many carbohydrates leads to fatigue and sleepiness.
3. Strike up a conversation. Misery loves company but no one will come to the rescue if you are a spoilsport. Lift the mood by talking to a friend. Laugh over old times or make plans to get together. Sometimes all we need is someone to hang out with.
4. Get some sleep. The body can only go for so long without proper rest before it puts its foot down and yells, “Halt!” The more sleep we skip out on, the less able we are to concentrate. Our nerves get all jittery and anxiety takes hold. Aim for eight hours a night. Allow the body to slowly come down to normal before bedtime to ensure a better night’s sleep.
5. Eat a bit of chocolate. Yes, I said chocolate. Dark chocolate has properties that mimic what happens in the body when endorphins are produced. It is a mood lifter that tastes good too.

For some, the winter blues are a little more serious than that. For them, consulting a physician is best. When you are unsure of what the diagnosis may be, it is not advised to treat yourself. Get professional help.

6. A light box may be the answer. For people diagnosed with seasonal affective disorder, a close cousin of the winter blues, light boxes provide a daily dose of artificial sunlight to improve mood and alleviate symptoms.
7. Find support. If you are stressed by work, school, or family, talk it out with someone from a neutral third party. Support groups at church or a community organization provide a chance to work through what is causing the winter blues in the first place. For a more intimate setting, schedule a visit with a psychologist.

Are you or someone you know suffering from a sullen mood this winter? Talk it out to see what the problem really is. Try the tips on this list and if all else fails, consult a professional.