Posted: Monday, February 08, 2016

Wish you could skip through the next few months? You’re not alone. The combination the shorter days and lower temperatures can make the winter a very dreary time for many. Whether you’ve been diagnosed with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or just feel down in the dumps during this time of year, here are some tips to combat the winter blues:

Light up your life. Lack of vitamin D, which is absorbed through the skin from sunlight, is a common reason for winter depression. According to Lauren Mancini, a TPC health mentor specialist in the Wellness, Employment, and Education department, “Vitamin D can help fight off depression and reset your circadian rhythm, so it’s important to try to get outside, even when you don’t want to.” You can also get your Vitamin D levels checked through a blood test and take supplements if your doctor gives you the ok.

Get Active. Even when it’s colder than the Arctic Circle, it doesn’t mean you can’t get active! Consider joining a gym or bundling up and going for a quick jog. If you don’t want to go outside, there are plenty of indoor options; planking, crunches, push-ups and dumbbell curls are just a few of the many ways you can exercise indoors.

Make plans to do something fun. If you have something to look forward to, you will be more likely to enjoy your time. Whether it’s a tropical vacation or a ski weekend in the mountains, just the process of planning a trip may help lift your spirits!

Manage Your Cravings. When you’re feeling depressed, your body is often longing for empty carbs and sugar for a boost in serotonin levels and energy. But the energy doesn’t last very long, and you’re likely to have even lower energy soon after you indulge. Having staples like veggies, whole grains and lean proteins around the house will help fill you up when a craving strikes.

Give Back. A 2013 study by United Health Group found that 78 percent of US adults that volunteer said it lowers their levels of stress and makes them feel healthier. And it doesn’t have to be a huge effort. “Even doing something as small as picking up coffee for a friend can lift your spirits, so it’s a win-win for everybody involved,” said Mancini.

Make your home “homey.” Your home should be a place you want to go when you get home from work. Hang some pictures of things you like on the walls and break out the paint to brighten things up. It really doesn’t matter what you add, just make sure it’s a space in which you feel comfortable.

At the end of it all, winter is only temporary, so try some of these suggestions and the flowers and birds will be here before you know it!