Winter Blues? Lighten the Mood

Beat the Winter Blues

11.01.11
PreviousNext
1 of 1

Eat only pretty foods.

Sounds odd, right? But next time you’re at the market, take notice of how the most vibrant, natural foods are also the healthiest. Eating whole foods (fresh or frozen vegetables, fruits, whole grains and lean protein, like beans) will stabilize your blood sugar and energy levels, and restore cells with folate, vitamins and antioxidants.

Recipe makeovers can help you sidestep the surplus of unhealthy foods that will tempt you during the “season of eating” between Halloween and the Super Bowl.

Deactivate the snooze button.

Being active first thing in the morning releases feel-good endorphins that may help you have more energy and feel less depressed throughout the day. At least 30 minutes of yoga, aerobics, circuit training or other cardiovascular activities will get you off to a good start.

People are less likely to skip early morning workouts. Check with your local YMCA, try a cycling class for early birds or enroll in bootcamp, all of which routinely offer a.m. sessions.

Get in the spotlight. 

Light therapy can be one of the most effective tools in preventing the sluggishness, depression and irritability of seasonal affective disorder. Just 30 minutes of broad-spectrum light exposure during dark and gloomy days can influence chemicals in the brain responsible for increasing mood-boosting levels of vitamin D in the body. If natural light isn’t an option, invest in a light therapy box that you can easily use at your desk or at home.

Many home improvement stores carry broad-spectrum light bulbs. Buy and install a few in high-traffic areas of your home, such as the kitchen, bathroom or living room.

Bring the party to you.

It’s a fact: People with strong social networks are less likely to suffer from depression. Joining a social club, such as a professional networking group, an alumni club or sports league will instantly connect you to people with the same interests. Remember to take it easy on the drinking when possible since alcohol is a depressant.

New York City has several clubs dedicated to sports and professional networking. You can also find book clubs through your local branch of the New York Public Library.

Learn from your pet (or someone else’s).

Sometimes just seeing Fido’s wagging tail or getting a nuzzle from your kitty is enough to lift your spirits. Here are a few lessons our pets can teach us to help ward off the blues:

  • Build companionship with others.
  • Take time to nap and restore yourself.
  • Groom yourself for your own sense of well-being.
  • Don’t hold grudges.

If you don’t have your own furry friend, volunteering at the local Humane Society will give you the same enjoyment without the responsibility of pet ownership.

Think happy thoughts.  

Easier said than done, but the power of positive thinking can be life-changing. Cognitive behavioral therapy is one way you can replace negative thoughts with positive ones. Once you learn the technique, positive thinking will come naturally.

Beth Israel Medical Center’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences offers a full range of in- and out-patient services, including evening and weekend programs.
Tags:
9 people recommend this.
Vote up!
Voice Your Perspective ( You must sign in or register to post.)