5 tips to fight off the Winter blues

Fitmas Series

Have you been feeling moody, sad or low on energy? Have you noticed that you’re craving more sweet and starchy foods? Have your sleeping patterns changed? You might be experiencing some form of seasonal affective disorder (SAD, what a great acronym for this Winter depression syndrome!)

First of all, you’re not alone. The cold temperature and decrease of daylight time have an impact on approximately one in four people. The intensity of the symptoms varies from one person to the other and although we can’t just “skip” Winter, we can find ways to make ourselves feel better.

1: Get as much daylight as you can

Since the decrease of daylight is the main factor responsible for SAD, the first thing you can do to brighten your mood is to enjoy as much daylight as you can.

Even if the sun isn’t out, getting some fresh air will help. Maybe try to get out of the office on your lunch break or go for a long walk on the weekend.

2: Get those endorphins flowing

Exercise doesn’t only make you look good. It makes you feel good by releasing endorphins, the happy hormones. Go for a run, try a kickboxing class, start a weight training programme… just get moving!

3: Eat energising foods

Sure, it feels momentarily good to eat cookies, demolish a pizza or have one chocolate per negative thought. But it doesn’t take long for you to start feeling sluggish, sleepy and bloated.
Focus on hearty and healthy Winter foods that are going to give you a boost of energy and give you a satisfying feeling, such as a homemade stew, soup or baked apples.

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4: Try light therapy

Nothing will replace the real sunlight but when the sun stay hidden for too long, technology can help. If you live in a gloomy area you might want to invest in a SAD light therapy lamp. It is recommended to use it 30 minutes in the morning to feel more energised during the day.

5: Take your symptoms seriously

A lot of us will experience some form of Winter moodiness but if you find yourself feeling very depressed, unable to get out of bed or carry on with your day to day tasks then it’s time to seek professional help. You deserve to feel better right now, don’t wait for Spring.

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