Winter Blues
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The winter blues…We all get them, to some extent. And we can beat them! It is hard work just getting through our day sometimes. We have families to care for and jobs to do, but winter brings on the additional challenges of extra clothing & travel time, driveways, cars, sidewalks, furnaces, water pipes…. The short, dark and dreary days do have a lot more work for us. But, I have five challenges for you that can make all the extra stuff a little less stressful. To beat those winter blues you really must eat healthy, exercise, get as much sunlight as possible, sleep well and get social!
Eating healthy may sound unpleasant but it’s not really too hard to swallow. In the darker days of winter, the levels of serotonin, our body’s natural stimulant, become lower, and we begin to crave carbohydrates, like junk foods high in sugars. This provides only a temporary rise in the serotonin levels that make you feel good. You can consistently increase your intake of protein, things like eggs and steak, to curb your sweet tooth cravings. Replace the sugars with real fruits... an apple a day can keep the doctor away! I cannot stress enough, the importance of real raw fruits and vegetables in our diet (nothing out of a box or bag from the cabinets). Did you know that man used to survive on that stuff?? They were healthier and smarter for it! Oh yeah, lets not forget to drink lots of water. Our bodies dry out quickly this time of year in heated buildings.
Exercising can be difficult in the cold snowy months of winter. But, you CAN do this! You can exercise in your living room starting with simple stretches, running or walking in place, or using an exercise video to get you motivated. There are exercise clubs to join, even just for the winter season. The best thing to do is get outside – you get a more therapeutic level of serotonin with exercise outside. So, bundle up, wear proper boots and layers of clothing, and take a nature walk in your neighborhood or go sledding. The truth is you are bound to catch a few of the suns rays while you’re out there!
Soak up the SUN! It may not seem that there is much sunlight to be found in the wintertime, but it’s out there. And, I’ll say it again: get outside! Sunlight and exercise… perfect! Or, you could join the cat in the window to absorb the sun, or take your work to a window seat.
Light Therapy is a true treatment for S.A.D, Seasonal Affective Disorder. That is a real diagnosis, which can only be made by your doctor. Often times the significant lack of sunlight due to winter and short days can disrupt the circadian rhythm, or sleep/wake cycle, in our bodies. Light boxes can be used to help some people improve their mood, however they are costly. I believe being outside or in a window for prolonged periods of time can boost your frame of mind.
Sleep is very important to maintain a healthy body and mind. We naturally feel tired and sleepy during the long winter months. And with our busy schedules pushing us along, sleep can often get short. Time management in our houses gets messed up due to finishing projects and doing housework. Self discipline can help you get the needed Zzz’s. Try to keep a consistent bed time and aim for 7-8 hours of sleep. Sleeping in and relaxing on the weekends or your days off can keep you feeling your best.
Socialization can be a real energizer! Friends, family, co-workers and neighbors can turn your frown upside down. We need each other, so keep that in mind when you bump into people at the grocery store or post office. Paying a compliment or acknowledging others, gives them and you a much needed boost!
Try to make a resolution to embrace the winter solstice season. Although the winter may not seem that great, fun can be found. The joy of the holiday season can be carried through into the New Year by making plans with friends for gatherings. Sledding, watching a great game or movie on T.V., snowball fights, hot chocolate, snowmen, reading a good book, snow angles, cozy fireplaces, and simply keeping a positive attitude will help the cold months fly by!
By: Teresa Kakabadze