Beat the Winter Blues!

It is common to feel the winter blues with the colder weather and shorter days. You are not alone if you experience fatigue, sadness, difficulty concentrating, lack of motivation and trouble sleeping during this time of the year. Here are some tricks to manage these mood changes:
  • Step Outdoors – bundle up and be sure to get outside even if it’s only for 10 minutes. Research shows that spending time outdoors, in sunshine, in nature and fresh air, reduces stress and anxiety and increases feelings of happiness. Sunlight balances hormones and increases Vitamin D levels.
  • Get Moving – physical activity has been proven to boost mood, decrease symptoms of depression and reduce stress. Start slow and gradually increase your duration and intensity level. Get a combination of cardio, strength and stretch.
  • Mood Boost with Food – ensure you are eating a combination of real food at each meal, choosing from proteins fruits and veggies, healthy fats and whole grains. Choosing the colors of the rainbow with your fruits and veggies will allow for consuming foods rich in a variety of vitamins and minerals.
  • Get Enough Sleep – be consistent with the amount of sleep you get each day and follow a routine that allows for you to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day. Sleep in a cool, dark room and refrain from using electronics in the bedroom.
The winter blues can take a toll on your physical and mental health. Although you can’t change the season, you can make choices to help minimize the effects and boost your mood. Think Positive!