Winter blues? Not you’s! Dec15 '04
It’s hard to not be affected by the "winter blues." The everlasting darkness, bitter chill, threat of sickness, and stressful holiday activities can cause major malfunctions within the body and brain. This leads to depression and anxiety.
Sure, some folks can get through winter with barely a problem.
But the rest of us are affected in some way.
As we merge ourselves deeper into December, and the heart of winter, there’s no turning back. We need to control the winter, and not let the winter control us.
I’m here to lend some ideas and ways to keep your spirits high, and your mind working smoothly. It’s also a way for me to reassure myself. I try to do these things quite often.
- Get exercise. Even if it’s just a short walk around the block. Keep yourself active and moving. Breathe deeply when you exercise. Fill your body with air. It’s good for you.
- Get outside. Sure, the temperature is dropping down pretty low, and it’s dark early, but you can bundle up, or go outside during the middle of the day when it’s warmer. Try not to let the winter keep you indoors. Just little "stints" of outside activity can make you realize that there’s more to winter than being surrounded by walls.
- Visit friends. Often. Try seeing friends more than you usually would. Friends raise your spirits, and make you laugh. Those things are important during these "dark days."
- Watch or participate in an activity or sport. Sports are great for the mind and body. Even just watching your local team on TV every other night can raise your spirits and give you something to look forward to. Also, try taking a class at the park district, where you can meet other people, and learn something new.
- PARTY! Just because it’s cold and dark early, doesn’t mean you can’t get together and have some drinks in the evenings, or just laughs. Holiday parties with your company are a good ticket too. You can get to know your co–workers on a different scale, and get away from the office atmosphere.
- Try something new. Try learning an instrument, or listening to some different music. How about a board game? Maybe you have some extra time to try a new activity.
- Read. Read anything you can. Just keep reading, and learning new things.
- Be consistent! Don’t do something once, and never again. Developing a routine is great for the mind. Try to stick to a schedule every day. This will help you stay organized, and free from worry.
- Stay happy... spring is right around the corner!
Anyone have any other ideas? Feel free to mention them.
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I am not the biggest fan of winter months as matt knows. I am always running from one warm place to the next. Yes, the first snow fall is beautif ... Read more.
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Oh yes, the winter blues. One thing I try to do is remove myself from my familiar surroundings. Usually, this constitutes heading directly to the a ... Read more.