I know however that not everyone feels this way about winter. This is the time of year when SAD strikes. The darkness and lack of sunshine or light affects those with a propensity to depression. It is also a time when people huddle indoors and hibernate and exercise/fitness reduces. I think, however this is the opposite of what people should do despite the tempations. In fact to counteract and fight against the misery of this time of year it is better to maximise your exercise and sunlight opportunities.
Increase your exercise as Serotonin released during exercise improves your mood.
So:
- Get out in the middle of the day. Take a brisk walk and enjoy some fresh air.
- Put your thick tracksuit and jumper on and jog round the local park.
- Play some tennis - once the frost has melted off the court. Or find somewhere with indoor courts.
- Swim at the pool - they are heated so its like a soothing bath. Take a bone warming sauna afterwards - it really revives you.
- If you really suffer why not buy a Lightbox as there is a proven link between increased light exposure ( which decreases Melatonin production linked to depression) and an improvement in people's SAD symptoms. You only need to have exposure between 45 mins and 1 hour per day to improve your symptoms.
Keep your diet good and balanced despite the weather. Try to keep up your in take of fruit and vegetables and do not over indulge in heavy carbohydrates. I keep a bowl of Satsumas and apples to hand for snacking.
Finally - if all else fails and if it is possible for you go and get some winter sun. We are off overseas next week so we hope we will be blogging in a sunny and warm location. Fingers crossed.
