Find your Light in the shorter days
The end of daylight savings marks the official transition to fewer hours of sunlight. This is challenging for many, especially when most “light” hours are spend at work.
Here are some ideas to help you avoid the winter blues and keep your energy and spirits up over the next few months:
Get outside into the sun every day at lunch time.
I know this is easier said than done but you will actually be more productive at work if you take a short walk outside in the middle of your day, even if it’s just for 15 minutes.
Set an alarm and walk away from whatever you are doing. You will be happier when you get back.
Do your best to eat healthy foods (lean proteins, vegetables, fruit and whole grains).
These foods will give you the vitamins and minerals needed to help maintain your energy levels and avoid the winter carbohydrate cravings.
Plan ahead and bring healthy foods with you (and also allow yourself to give into some of your less healthy cravings occasionally).
Schedule time with people you enjoy.
Social support can be one of the best ways to boost your mood and energy levels.
When you connect with a friend or family member, you improve the quality of your life and theirs.
Exercise at least 3X per week.
Exercise helps to release serotonin into your system (a "feel good" neurotransmitter in our brain).
When we get less sunlight, less serotonin is released so exercise is essential during this time.
Give yourself a break when you have a bad day.
We’re never going to “get it all done”, eat healthy every day or exercise as much as we’d like.
Do the best you can and revise your plan the next day if you didn’t accomplish what you wanted.
If you have too many “bad days” in a row, consider consulting a medical professional to see if you need nutritional supplementation or other assistance. Seasonal Affective Disorder is real and can be managed with help.
