Winter Blues Got You Feeling a Bit Down?
It happens to the best of us. In fact, the “winter blues,” also known as seasonal affective disorder is more common than you think and impacts people of all ages, including children.
As the days get shorter and colder, it can be difficult to get motivated to do even the simplest tasks, like writing, exercising or cooking dinner.
Everyone reacts to wintertime differently, and you might find a combination of “cures” will pull you out of your funk.
If at first, you don’t succeed, keep trying till you find what works for you!
Staying active is never more important than in the winter. With less daylight on our hands, you have to take advantage of the sun while it’s out.
A simple 30 minute walk in the morning will give you a boost of vitamin D and completely change the course of your day.
Being cold can not only lead to sickness but can also cause depression. Staying warm can significantly decrease your winter blues — plus it feel a whole lot better!
Beyond just bundling up, turn to warm foods and hot drinks to keep your body temperature regulated.
A healthy diet is important year round, but during the holiday season, it can become especially difficult to stay on track. Eating well will boost your mood, increase your energy and prevent excess weight gain.
Whenever you can, get outside and enjoy the sun! Even a few minutes here and there can make all the difference.
If you’re still not getting enough sunlight, consider purchasing a light box. Light boxes give out very bright light (more than ten time stronger than normal at-home lights) and can be highly beneficial for seasonal depression.
Instead of getting stuck in a slump, get out there and try something new. Pick up a new hobby, join a book club, throw a party — anything out of the ordinary!
If you’re really jonesing for a new challenge, why not join us at “Book Bound by the Sea?”
Being around friends and family is a proven way to ward of the winter blues. Put in the extra effort to keep in touch with your loved ones, even if you’re not quite feeling up to it.
If you get an invitation to an event, go for it! Better yet, organize your own get-together.
If nothing seems to be working and you’re still experiencing severe symptoms, talk to someone! Reach out to a trusted companion, your spouse, a family member or a mentor and share what you’re feeling.
You’re not in this alone! Winter blues affect everyone, even the happiest among us.
The trick is staying aware of your feelings and getting ahead of them before they escalate.
The end of the year is the perfect opportunity to reset and gear up for an amazing year to come. Don’t let seasonal depression derail you from stepping into your greatness!
Join us this January at “Book Bound by the Sea” and finally become the published author you’ve always dreamed of!
Check out what other “Book Bounders” have to say.