Beating the Winter Blues
The days following Daylight Saving Time feel short – and for a good reason: We’re on a slow crawl toward the shortest day of the year, the Dec. 21 winter solstice with less than nine hours of daylight. If it’s dark when you drive to school or work and dark when you return home again, it’s natural to feel a little tired or wistful for summer’s long days.
“Whether it’s holiday burnout or a true case of seasonal affective disorder, many of us feel lethargic, irritable or struggle with sleeping this time of year,” said Dr. Jewelia Wagner. “If you think you have a serious case of depression, we urge you to talk with a doctor who can help. If you just need a little seasonal boost, then a little movement, a little socialization and a little creativity can help.”
Consider these tips for beating the worst of the winter blues:
–Be social. While you might just want to sit on your couch for the next several months, staying in contact with close friends and family provides a sense of connection and purpose. Try a new hobby, keep a regular lunch date or invite friends over for a movie night. Being social doesn’t have to be elaborate or time-consuming.
–See the light. Many people who struggle with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) benefit from light therapy. A specially designed bright light (a light box that emits white light is recommended) can mimic outdoor light and provide a boost in just a few days.
–Get outside and move. This might be the last thing you want to do on a cool, dark day, but fresh air can be invigorating and you can even get a little vitamin D boost from the sun. Consider a brisk 20-minute walk, a snowshoe when the time is right, or practical outdoor exercise such as raking or other winter prep.
–Warm up from the inside out. You might not be surprised to hear that staying warm can help you beat the winter blues. Try warm, nourishing food (balanced protein and carbs and, of course, lots of fruits and veggies) and warm drinks as well as warm clothes and a comfortable house temperature.
Every season has its ups and downs. The more you can embrace the change of fall and winter (new clothes to wear, new foods to eat, new experiences to enjoy), the more you can enjoy your life year-round.
