Tips to beating the winter blues!
Whether you have the occasional blues in the winter or you struggle with depression, try these tips that may help alleviate some of your symptoms. First of all, be sure to talk with someone if you are depressed, because, depression can be very serious and may require attention from a professional.
Exercise releases endorphins that help lift your mood. This involves any activity that gets your heart rate up! You can play with your family, walk with a friend, or lift dumbbells in your living room. Refer to this article for some simple exercises you can do at home without equipment.
Another tip to beating the winter blues is laughter! Everyone loves to laugh, and as serious adults, we tend to forget to make this a part of our routine. The bible states in Proverbs 17:22 A merry heart does good like a medicine. Scientific studies have proven today that this is real wisdom that works!
Another tip for beating the winter blues is in getting outdoors and in the fresh air and sunlight. The vitamin D we get from the sunshine is serious therapy. Dr. Axe has a great article on vitamin D and how in being deficient leads to many illnesses including depression.
Every sunny day, even in the winter, you should take a brisk walk. Doing this with a partner can give you fellowship and laughter at the same time. Encourage someone else and help yourself in the process. Helping others always lifts your mood!
What you think about has a direct affect on your mood. Dr. Caroline Leaf states that research shows 75%-98% of mental, physical, and behavioral illnesses come from your thought life. The bible tells us in Proverbs 23:7 as a man thinks in his heart so is he. Romans 12:2 also tells us to be transformed by the renewing of our mind.
Our thoughts are a real battle and even though it is a choice what we meditate on, circumstances can make this much more difficult. Try listing all you have to be thankful for, beginning with the simple things that we take for granted daily.
Make sure you are getting plenty of sleep. If you are are having a hard time with sleep, you may be deficient in magnesium, a vital mineral, that has an affect on both sleep and depression.
Most Americans are deficient in magnesium and our lifestyle choices deplete our levels as well. Stressful situations require more magnesium. Caffeinated beverages cause the body to release extra magnesium. Also, carbonated drinks contain phosphates that flush magnesium out of your system as well.
Refined sugar causes the body to excrete magnesium through the kidneys. With our diets and lifestyle, I would highly recommend a supplement. Several clients I have worked with have reported feeling better with changing their diet, adding exercise, and supplementation.
If you have any tips for beating the winter blues that have worked for you, please add your voice by leaving a comment below. Help someone today by passing on the information!
To your health,
Jenay Green
