After all the festive holidays, the winter consists of many snow storms, harsh-cold days, and shorter days ending at 5pm. These tips are helpful ways to take care of yourself and take advantage of the winter while avoiding the likelihood of having Seasonal Affective Disorder, known as SAD and Seasonal Depression.
1. Enjoy the Sun
One of the best ways to prevent the winter blues is to take a stroll outside while it is sunny outside. The sun provides Vitamin D which is both good for your physical and mental health. Try to to find some time out of your day to take a breath of fresh air while taking a break from the stuffy indoors.
2. Don’t skip out on your exercise routine
Another great reason to continue your exercise routine in the winter is to lessen your chances from suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD may be caused by lack of sun, activity and proper nutrition. When you exercise your body releases needed endorphins to keep your winter blues at a minimum. In addition, during the months of December, January and February women exercise ten percent less than in the summer time. Make an effort to go to the gym or try your favorite exercise video at home.
3. Take advantage of the winter
Instead of mopping around about the cold weather, take advantage of the winter! Enjoy many fun activities such as snowboarding, ice-skating, sledding, or hockey. These sports are only available three months of the year so enjoy these opportunities while you can. You can also get creative and try do-it-yourself crafts which you can find at your local craft store. During the winter, try that new cooking recipe and spend valuable time with your friends and family by putting together scrapbooks.
4. Keep a healthy diet
It is crucial to keep a healthy because what you eat can affect your mood and energy. Try foods that include Omega-3 fatty acids. Studies show that omega-3 fatty acids may have healing benefits in children that are depressed. Many foods that include Omega-3 Fatty acids are salmon, tuna, flax seeds, soy beans, halibut and more. You can also take supplements as well for Omega-3 fatty acids. Eating a carbohydrate-rich meal may increase levels of serotonin. Serotonin is one of the chemicals in our body that is responsible for putting you in a better mood Try to avoid refined and processed foods such as rice, white breads, and pure sugar since these foods take away nutrients that your body wants and can deprive energy levels leading to lack of concentration and moods swings throughout the day.
5. Try Chamomile before bed
Chamomile can help reduce anxiety and relieve the winter blues. I enjoy drinking Chamomile tea before bed due to its calming effect. It is also caffeine free and tastes very smooth. It is the best way to de-stress after a long day.
6. Work on your resolutions
With the busy months aheads of us we may have forgotten about the resolutions that we spent hours coming up with. Think back to your resolutions and achieve those goals. Personally, being able to cross out goals from my list makes me feel happy and accomplished.
This winter try and beat those winter blues! Put down your agendas and take time to take care of yourself because YOU are the most important person in your life.
