Lose The Blues

After the excitement of the holidays dies down, and with less daylight and colder weather keeping us indoors more, February can get a little glum. In fact, science has proven that the lower exposure to light in wintertime can result in lower levels of serotonin, the mood-enhancing chemical that regulates hunger and the feeling of wellbeing. If your energy level and attitude start going down along with the temperature, here are a few simple ways to perk yourself back up.

Move It
It can be hard to get started, but exercising regularly is one of the best ways to battle winter blahs since it releases some of that serotonin you may need, plus reduces stress and helps you sleep better. Just a brisk, 25-minute walk four times a week can do the trick, and if you can do it outside, that’s a bonus. Even on cloudy days, you’re soaking up some of the sun’s rays and getting a dose of Vitamin D, which also helps to balance your mood.

Be Bright
Surround yourself with sunny colors. Grab a few new throw pillows for your couch, splurge on cut flowers to put in a vase, or even pick a room you spend a lot of time in and paint the walls a vibrant hue. Color has been proven to affect how we feel, and bright colors bring on happy thoughts.

Say “No” to Sugar
Whether it is a true lack of serotonin or just boredom, some people are more drawn to sugary snacks (and lots of them!) in the winter. They’ll give you a quick boost but will leave you feeling worse than before you ate them as soon as that sugar high wears off. They’ll also cause you to pack on extra pounds, fast. Try snacking on foods like nuts and fruits (dried or fresh) instead. They’ll give you sustained energy, plus lots of other vitamins and nutrients your body needs to keep things running right.

Stay Social
Once all the hustle and bustle of the holidays is over, some people pull back from social engagements and stop doing things with friends for a while. We all need a break, but hibernating in your house can definitely bring on the blues. Make a point to get out and be around others, even if you don't think you feel “up to it.” A stimulating conversation or a good laugh can go a long way in helping you fight the funk.

Avoid Alcohol
There’s long been a link between alcohol and depression. Limit your drinking in the winter if you notice that it leaves you feeling low.