It’s February, it’s cold and the winter blues seem to be affecting everyone! Think you might be affected? Here’s a quick test: are you feeling inexplicably withdrawn, low in energy, and all around down? This could very well be a case of the winter blues, and you are not alone! Winter blues is a common mood disorder that affects many more women than it does men. No need to worry though, because here is the good news, it is simple to remedy with some simple lifestyle changes. Even better news is that listed below are 5 simple suggestions to win the war against those winter blues and stop them from getting the best of your sun-shiny personality!
1) Get Active, Stay Active
Exercising regularly can be one of the most effective ways to ward off the winter blues. Exercise has been proven to have an effect on the chemicals in our brain that control our mood, thus boosting our spirits! As tempting as our cozy blankets may seem, this is why it is essential to stay active. To increase your motivation to exercise, try taking up a winter activity that you can do with friends! You can snowshoe, do zumba or even just take a stroll around the block. Even just a few a minutes of physical activity has been proven to boost your mood!
2) Increase your Sunlight Intake
Try to get as much sunlight as possible. Sunlight is a great natural tool to lift your spirits. Sunlight helps our brain produce more serotonin, a chemical that helps to improve mood. So make the extra effort to go outside more, or to work near a window, whatever you can do to get better acquainted with our friend Mr. Sun!
3) Brighten up your Environment
Livening up your environment can in turn liven up your mood, and drown out your winterblues. Try to add life and cheer to your everyday surroundings. Bring greenery to your office, add color to your personal space, and you can even try to spruce up your wardrobe with some brighter choices! If your environment is radiating positive energy, you will naturally follow.
4) Stay Positive!In winter it is essential that you engage in activities that motivate you, keep you focused and make you feel accomplished. The best way to be happy is to feel good about yourself and what you are doing. Take a few minutes every day to do what you love. Spending your energy to do something you find fulfilling and challenging is a great way to help you snap on out of those blues! Try a jigsaw puzzle, but If you’re having a tough time doing that, get some inspiration here.
5) Add Aromatherapy
Although a bit more unconventional, aromatherapy can be a great way to change your way of thinking and refresh your mind. There are many natural oils and remedies that can make your body and mind healthier, and help you out of that winter slump. Peppermint, lemongrass and lavender are great scents to help keep you feeling great. If those aren’t your favourite scents, then try something new! Jasmine anyone?
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