Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Beautiful Blogging - Beating the Winter Blues

So the holidays are over and the reality of Winter has set in.  Cold, ice, snow, lack of sunshine, ugh!!!!!  If you're like me then you're already counting down the days until Spring - flowers, sun, warmth,  - ahhhhh...  For some of you that will start next month.  For others, March.  Still for some of us even later.  Here in Western New York we sometimes have to wait until April!  This time of year can lead to frustration, dysphoria, and the "Winter Blues." 

The good news is that you can beat those ol' Winter time blues!  Here are some tips that can help us through:
  • Maintain your schedule and routine!  This can be hard to do when it's cold and windy but it is oh so important.  Get up about the same time each day, eat your meals about the same time, and complete at least one task each day.  I know it's so easy to hibernate but it's not helpful.
  • Exercise!  I think we all know the benefit of exercise these days, both mentally and physically.  While it's easier to exercise when the sun is shining, don't forget we need these benefits all year long!  Exercise not only relieves stress but it also releases endorphins, the "feel good" hormones.
  • Eat healthy!  I think we all tend to indulge a bit around the holidays but try to get back on track.  We need to eat good quality food to maintain our energy level.  So think about what you're eating, particularly if you're appetite is a bit suppressed.
  • Schedule fun activities!  Again, I think this is so much easier in the warmer months but still as important during the Winter.  You may need to be creative, but schedule something you enjoy at least once a week.  See a movie, go to a favorite restaurant, spend some time at your local bookstore, take a walk - whatever you deem fun, do it!
  • Socialize!  Don't hibernate all Winter.  Spend time with friends and family.
  • Laugh!  We all need a good laugh right?  It's a great stress reliever and can make any day brighter.  Watch a funny movie or hang out with those who make you laugh.
  • Engage regularly in stress-reducing activities!  What helps you relax?  Exercise? Journaling?  Friends?  A hot bath?  A good book?  Whatever that is for you, engage in it!
  • If your symptoms persist or are severe please seek medical assistance.  Seasonal Affective Disorder is a real disorder that is more severe than the "Winter blues" that can successfully be treated.  You don't have to suffer.
This list is certainly not exhaustive and is in no way intended to replace professional medical care.  But is can certainly help those of us who need a little boost this winter. 

In the meantime think of this...


Have a wonderful week!

OXOXOX,
Jacalyn

6 comments:

Lisa ~Suburban Retreat~ said...

Thanks for all the hints and tips to keep away the 'Winter Blues'! We aim for April as well to be guaranteed some decent weather.

Empty Nester said...

Nice tips and helpful to many. For me, I enjoy our short little winters down here because THE SUMMERS ARE BRUTAL! LOL

Tammy@Beatrice Banks said...

Great tips! I've got the laughter down and the stress relieving activity of blogging. Now I need to work on exercising, not hibernating and all the rest!
Wishing you sunshine on a cloudy day!
Tammy

Claudia Mora said...

Thank you Jacalyn! I have had the "Blues" for most of my life, since about 6 years old and I apreciate that you take the time to share these tips! Of course my journey towards getting better started a year ago and I can finally say that I am happy and fulfilled regardless of the external circumstances. Oh, I wish that everyone could discover that discover that a happy and fulfilled life is achievable! ; )
God is #1 of course! But everything else helps too!

Let's stay in touch!
Your Happy Pal
Claudia

La said...

I would love to be on that beach! La

Dogmom Diva said...

Hi Jacalyn, thank you for the great tips...I live in the desert southwest and I still get the winter blues...aaaargh..I need to be on a beach in a warm place I think!

I love your background, it is the exact same print as my valances! I kept looking and snap! its my valances! we have good taste!

Have a great day!

Barb

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