Winter Blues
By Lauren Martyn
CW: Discussion of seasonal depression
With the cold, dreary weather, and the sun setting so early, it can be tough to make the best of our winter days. While it is easy to enjoy the outdoors when the weather is warmer and the sun is shining, we often find it difficult to leave the house on these cold winter days. When we don't make an effort to spend time outside due to the freezing temperatures, it is almost impossible to avoid falling into a seasonal depression. Not only are we constantly reminded of loneliness as we are cooped up inside, but when we stay indoors we don't receive enough vitamin D from the sun - a crucial component of our health. I wanted to share some tips and tricks that I use to ensure I am keeping my health (both mental and physical) in check during the long winter season.
Try to spend time outdoors. I know it can be tough. Trust me, walking outside in freezing temperatures is far from ideal. However, it is so important to get Vitamin D every day. Try to take advantage of the few hours of sunlight we have available to us during the winter months, and you are bound to see a difference in your mood.
If this is not an option for you, I recommend buying a sun lamp on Amazon. Research has shown that light therapy can decrease the effects of depression greatly! Spending just 20 minutes in front of this sun-lamp can have drastic improvements on your health.
Eat warm, comforting foods full of vitamins and minerals to help maintain a healthy lifestyle during the colder months. Ensure you are getting an adequate amount of protein, healthy fats, as well as good carbs. Folate rich foods, such as spinach, broccoli, or kale, are also a key ingredient in easing symptoms of depression. So make sure you are eating foods that are not only tasty and comforting, but also reaping with amazing benefits!
Although exercise may be the last thing on your mind when the weather drops and the sun goes down, it is so important to ensure you are releasing those endorphins every day! It really does not have to be anything intense–just do what you love! Whether that be yoga, running, or walking, any type of movement has been shown to produce a significant reduction in symptoms of seasonal depression.
Overall, it is so important to make sure you are keeping your mental health in check during these long winter months. So every day, make sure you set aside time for yourself and do things you love. Take it easy on yourself, and remember that the warmer weather is just around the corner!
