Winter weather can cause many of us to feel a little down.

There’s no clinical diagnosis for the “winter blues,” but experts at the National Institutes of Health say the so-called winter blues are fairly common and are usually marked by feeling more down than usual, sad, or less energized. Estimates suggest anywhere from 14 to 20 percent of American adults experience seasonal mood changes. (Probably a lot more in the last few days). 🙂

Everydayhealth.com has 10 really great ideas on how to BEAT the Winter Blues.
Check out the full article HERE.

1. Lace Up Your Running Shoes and Get Moving

Getting at least 20 minutes of vigorous activity four times a week has been shown to reduce depressive mood.

2. Set Your Alarm Clock and Stick to a Sleep Routine

Tempting as it might be to sleep in on dark mornings, it’s best to stick with a regular sleep schedule — which means waking up at the same times on weekdays and weekends.

3. Queue Up a Stream of Laugh-Out-Loud Films

Experts believe that laughter actually stimulates processes in your brain that counter depressive symptoms.

4. Warm Yourself Up With a Mug of Real Hot Cocoa

5. Host a Festive Party — But Don’t Stress

Planning an event will give you something to look forward to — and it could also put you on other people’s invite lists (more fun for you!).

6. Give Yourself a Manageable Task to Accomplish

It’s important to build activities into your day — even chores, like cleaning the floor — that will give you a sense of competence and accomplishment.

Balance the hard work with little things that bring you pleasure, like treating yourself with fresh flowers or, yes, that homemade cup of hot cocoa.

7. But Don’t Let Your To-Do List Get Too Out of Hand

Don’t overwhelm yourself with lists of projects and chores just because you can’t do other activities you might spend time doing in other seasons. Decide to stop procrastinating on the unpleasant stuff that could just snowball into more stress later, like unpaid bills, so you’ll have more time to do things you do enjoy. Get the tools you need to get organized.

8. Book a Staycation — Even if It’s a Mini One

Most people get a lift when they have something to look forward to. You may not have the budget or time off of work to take an exotic trip, but it’s much easier to make time for and plan a local staycation treat, such as an afternoon ice skating with friends, trying out a new restaurant in a nearby town, or going to a concert.

9. Consider Light Therapy if You Can’t Get the Sunshine You Need

It’s dark when you leave for work and dark when you get home, so how are you going to get your daily dose of natural sunshine? A decrease in sunlight can disrupt your body’s circadian rhythms, and cause a drop in serotonin levels and Vitamin D levels, which can lead to depressive symptoms.

If you have the flexibility and the weather allows for it, schedule in an early-morning walk or lunchtime stroll.  Light therapy can help regulate your body’s circadian rhythms and its natural release of the hormones that help you feel energized and the ones that help you sleep.

10. Don’t Hesitate to See Your Healthcare Professional

Chronic pain, headaches, sleep disorders, and even heart disease are all linked to depression symptoms, so check in with your healthcare provider to make sure your winter blues aren’t something more serious.