- Some of us wearily face a winter-time when our mood is depressed, we want to eat more (especially carbs and sugars), as well as sleep more. Once the holidays pass, we are facing shorter days and colder nights. What can be done?
- Well, there are some simple steps we can all take to combat the winter blahs:
- Get sun.
- Research on Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) shows that your eyes being exposed to more light seems to have an effect. Not only is sunlight important, but even the time of day can make a difference. If you have a sun-room, and you get up in the morning or as soon as the sun is up, head for this space. Alternatively, you can sit near a bright fluorescent light in the morning.
- Get moving.
- Keep your exercise program up. Exercise creates endorphins, or a feel-good substance that increases the more you exercise.
- Go toward happy thoughts.
- Some people see the glass as half full and some people see it as half empty. Such tendencies often predict depression. Find ways to see life in a lighter way - watch your favorite cartoons or do something kind for someone else.
- Get a pet - or borrow one.
- Pets are a really good source of support and can help you stay active. They are also a really good incentive for going outside.
- Get together.
- Try to be more active, stay out in the sun for at least 20 minutes, increase your social contact, and don't pull yourself away from people. Surround yourself with people who make you feel good, and that you can play with, be active with. Follow what lights you up inside. What makes you feel more energetic? More alive?
- In the dark winter days to come, find some answers to these questions so that there can be light and it can come from inside of you.
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