Seven ways to beat the winter blues
If you’re feeling down for no reason after Christmas, then there could be an explanation. Generally, the first few months of the year are a little gloomy. It’s dark and cold outside, the magic of Christmas is over, and you may have already broken your New Year's resolutions. But feeling lethargic and lacking motivation is very common at this time of year, and you could be experiencing the winter blues.
The winter blues or seasonal affective disorder (SAD) affects around 2 million people in the UK and is a form of depression. For most, it is a temporary feeling, and it does pass. But we have put together seven excellent tips to help you chase away those blues a little faster.
Exercise
Staying active is a great way to beat the blues. Going for a walk, exercising at home, or joining one of our fitness classes helps to increase activity in crucial neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals are responsible for feelings of pleasure, can energise the brain, and boost your mood. If you choose to attend one of our exercise/movement or creative classes in Carnelian or Sunstone, the lighting is mood-enhancing with benefits to assist those suffering from S.A.D.
Go outside
The weather might not always be the most reliable or predictable in the winter, but there is something beautiful about a crisp winter’s morning. Filling your lungs with fresh air and allowing your body to absorb natural daylight is great for lifting your spirits.
Keep warm
Being cold has a negative effect on your mood. So wrapping up warm in your favourite jumper, drinking hot drinks and eating hot food will improve how you feel. You might also like to see Jane Mather for her workshop on how to wear your colours with confidence… It’s called retail therapy for a reason.
Eat healthily
Sure, pizza and ice cream are delicious, but these food groups will actually make you feel more sluggish over the winter months. The spikes in blood sugar levels make you feel good, but only temporarily because these levels dip soon after.
Foods such as broccoli, spinach, and lentils are great in winter (think delicious soup!) because they release energy slowly, helping to avoid sudden spikes and fluctuations in your mood.
Foods rich in Omega-3, such as salmon and cod, are also good because they act as an antidepressant by improving brain cell function.
Mindfulness & Meditation
A relaxed body and mind are great for your mood. Mindfulness and meditation stimulate the hormone melatonin; this leads to increased activity in the left prefrontal cortex (the part of the brain associated with happiness) and decreased activity in brain regions linked to stress. Our meditation classes teach you different styles, boosting your wellbeing, lifting your mood, and alleviating lots of other symptoms too. Find the style that best suits you.
Take up a new hobby
Learning a new skill or taking up a new hobby is a great way to beat the winter blues. It will help your brain stay active and give you something to look forward to each week. If you fancy trying something creative, then we have workshops and classes in things like sewing or photography, or if you’d like something that can increase your heart rate, we’d love to see you at one of our Exercise & Movement Sessions.
Talk about it
It’s good to talk. If you feel down, anxious or worried, talking to a professional can help. Our trained experts allow you to discuss your problems confidentially, in a safe place, with someone who listens and is non-judgemental. A problem shared is a problem halved.
We hope you find these seven tips helpful, and ultimately they lift your mood.
Please feel free to get in touch if you would like to find out more, you would like to book a consultation, or you’d like to join a class.
