Written by: Dana Giragosian, Intern
Now that the holidays have passed and the forecast continues to predict cold temperatures, you might be wondering how you will cope with the rest of the season. If you experience the “winter blues” or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), here are some ways for you to maintain healthy habits that can increase your overall mood, motivation, optimism, positivity, and warmth.
- Find the Light: During the winter months, the amount of sunlight is limited. Exposure to sunlight increases levels of serotonin, which improves mood, alleviates anxiety and depression, and provides warmth.
Find the light by:- Opening the window shades
- Getting outside as much as possible
- Purchasing a light therapy lamp
- Plan for a tropical trip
- Keep Moving: Nestling on the couch seems like the only way to stay warm and comfortable during these cold days. However, exercise can release endorphins which increases joyfulness, motivation, and self-esteem, all while promoting fitness, mobility, and strength. Oh, and a good warm Sweat!
Keep moving by:- Going for a brisk walk – Sunlight AND exercise!
- Ice skating
- Taking the stairs
- Stretching throughout the day
- Taking a fitness/dance class
- Building a snowman
- Tune Up: Studies show listening to upbeat, cheery music can boost your mood in seconds! This will give the brain a boost, and promote that motivation and energy that might be lacking.
Tune up by:- Getting ready
- Driving
- Cleaning
- Exercising
- Cooking
- Dancing
- Stay Connected: Although hibernating might seem like the more comfortable choice when it’s cold and dreary outside, staying connected and spending time socializing may be the more wise choice. Isolation can sometimes increase feelings of depression, and snowball effect into SAD.
Stay connected by:- Inviting friends/family over
- Meeting a friend out
- Joining a book club
- Finding a community hobby
- Taking a cooking class
- Taking any class
- Visiting a museum
If you think what you are experiencing could be more than the winter blues or SAD and would like to speak with one of our mental health providers, please contact us at Naperville Wellness and Counseling!
