As they say in Game of Thrones, “winter is coming,” and for many people the prospect is well and truly frightening. The endless grey days, the darkness setting in at 4pm, the ice and snow, the groggy mornings and the icy temperatures… you can be forgiven for feeling a little miserable.
Thankfully, you don’t need to flee to another Hemisphere until it all passes. Dr. Vann at Everyday Health has several easy and practical tips that can make the winter blues a lot easier to cope with.
Physical activity
You may not feel like it, but getting your blood pumping and your tissues filled with oxygen has been shown to improve low moods – and not just in winter. This is because exercise encourages your body to release mood-boosting endorphins, which combat the depression, anxiety and fatigue associated with seasonal blues.
Set healthy goals
Keep yourself focused and inspired by setting some lifestyle goals. You could commit to starting a daily yoga or exercise habit, or make time for some self-care. Setting your intention everyday keeps you aligned with what’s important and will give you a sense of accomplishment when you honor your commitment.
Try light therapy
Special lamps are available to treat seasonal adjustment disorder (appropriately shortened to SAD) and they can be as powerful as antidepressants. Make your own sunshine, or soak it up when you find it – simply sitting in the warm sunshine in the window at noon can do wonders for your overall mood.
Practice good sleep hygiene
Though mornings are darker, it’s not a good idea to sleep in – instead, follow a regular sleep schedule, even when you feel like hibernating! Getting regular, high-quality sleep will go a long way to improving your mood and overall energy levels.
The best medicine…
Sometimes, laughter really is the best medicine. Lighten up and watch a movie of TV show that makes you laugh, simply have a giggle with friends or even consider going to see a comedy show. Good humor can take the edge of winter blues.
Connect with others
Take your mind off things by remembering what’s important – friends and family. Have good company over and enjoy yourselves for the evening, or go and pay a love done a visit to boost your mood – and theirs!
Ask for help
If “the blues” are starting to feel permanent and out of control, you may need a little extra help form a mental health professional. Don’t be afraid to reach out to those who can help you in your time of need.
