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Beating the Winter Blues

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There’s an inevitable letdown after the parties and presents of the holiday season have passed, and by mid-February your mood can be downright dreary. When that alarm goes off every workday morning, you so do not want to get out of bed.

You aren’t alone. Lots of people suffer from the Winter Blues. Here, some easy tips to keep you happy, healthy, and inspired as winter continues on its blustery path.

Know the SAD signs. The Winter Blues can be a real issue, especially if you live in cold and gray climates. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of mild depression brought on by a lack of exposure to sunlight. You might find it hard to wake up in the morning or feel lethargic and unable to concentrate. Also, pay attention to your appetite—serious cravings for carbs, chocolate, and sugar can be a sure sign you’re suffering from the Winter Blues.

Let the sunlight in. Make an effort to expose yourself to light in the morning. Open your curtains, take a walk, or eat your breakfast in front of a window. If you can’t sit in the sun in the a.m., sneak it in whenever you can. A walk at lunchtime to the corner deli or for an afternoon cup of tea can have a serious impact on your mood and energy level.

Light up your life. If the sun isn’t shining, brighten your world in other ways. Open the blinds in your office, get a desk lamp, and light candles when you get home from work. Keep yourself from dwelling in winter darkness by buying a houseplant or fresh flowers for your office or cubicle, or brighten up your couch with a vibrant pillow or throw.

Fuel your system. Keep your diet varied by eating lots of fruits, veggies, and complex carbs. Take your vitamins, too! And even though you may feel tired and sluggish, don’t drink coffee all day—it won’t make you feel any better. If you don’t exercise, think about starting. Exercise not only helps beat stress and sadness, but a new hobby like yoga or kickboxing might keep you inspired during a dark time of year.

If all this doesn’t help, start saving those pennies. A midwinter vacation to someplace warm and tropical is a proven (and fun!) remedy for the Winter Blues.

Written by: Anne Zimmerman

Anne Zimmerman received her MA in Woman's Studies from San Diego State University. She works for a small, family run winery in McMinnville, Oregon and is writing a book about the food writer M.F.K. Fisher.