Don’t be S.A.D.- Ways to beat the ‘Winter Blues’

It’s 30 below outside, snow is accumulating and hell hath frozen over literally. Unless your a big, hairy bear or born in Alaska, you’re fantasizing about warmer climates and sun-filled evenings. Look outside, this isn’t it. I can barely pull myself out of bed and clothing, well right now it’s top priority is to keep me warm, which explains my lack of WIW postings (sorry). This blows!

If you’re feeling the “winter blues” to it could potentially be something more than just the blues. Seasonal Affective Disorder or “SAD” is a diagnosed condition in which your mood changes with the changing of the seasons. Winter brings on lack of energy, increasing sleep, craving sweets and depression. Before you go stir crazy or ape shit or any manner of insane here are some fun and not so fun ways to rid yourself of a case of the SADs or avoid it all together.

Let there be Light!

A S.A.D. approved method of improving your mood is Bright Light Therapy. The waves in ultra-bright light mimic natural sunlight which can improve your symptoms. While natural sunlight is preferred, light boxes can provide up to 10,000 luminance.

Get Outta There!

Though you want to be holed up in the comfort of home, it’s counter-productive and can make your blues worse. Getting out into fresh air and natural sun will improve your mood and disposition. Plus exercise helps to keep adernaline pumping and relieves stress.

Be a Party Animal!

Ok, so don’t binge drink or do lines of coke, but have some fun! Plan outings with friends and family that are guaranteed to get you laughing and enjoying yourself. You’ll have a good time while taking your mind off of being tired or sad.

Embrace Winter, it’s Not Going Anywhere

Before you can rid yourself of the blues or SAD, you have to recognize that winter and it’s misfortune are here to stay. When you acknowledge that winter is a time for rebirth and reflection, your attitude towards the season won’t be so grim and neither will your reaction to it.

Suggested Reading:

Beating Winter Blues
Natural Ways to Beat SAD

How are you beating the “winter blues’?

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