As I sit down to write this there is a snowstorm outside. We passed 12 inches of snow an hour ago and it is still coming down. While some people love the snow and the winter in general, there are a lot of people out there who don’t. With the shorter days and cold weather, winter is tough for a lot of people to bear.
Whether you suffer from seasonal depression or just find you’re a little more sluggish in the winter months there are several things you can do to boost your mood.
Get outside – One key to surviving the winter weather is finding a way to enjoy it. Consider skiing, snowshoeing or even sledding. Get out and have some fun!
Eat well – It is truly remarkable how much what we eat affects our mood. Even though it’s cold outside don’t skimp on your vegetables and leafy greens. Cut back on the processed food and enjoy the results!
Get good lights – We all know that the days are shorter in the winter. This lack of sunshine is often a big factor in things like seasonal affective disorder. Getting a good full spectrum light can be a big help.
Make sure you’re getting your vitamin D – Part of not getting much sunlight is not getting enough vitamin D. There simply isn’t enough sunlight for your body to produce the vitamin D you need. Make sure you’re getting enough healthy fats with vitamins A & D in them.
Exercise – No matter what season it is, exercise is a great way to boost your mood. When you’re feeling a little down getting your body moving may not make problems go away but it will help you feel better.
Seek help when you need it – There are times and circumstances when depression is beyond what you can handle on your own. If this happens it’s important to reach out. Help is out there (including acupuncture) and you don’t have to do it alone. Schedule an appointment today!
