Q. As the days get shorter and the cold sets in, I find myself struggling to stay motivated. I want to stay active and make the most of the time with my family during the winter months. Do you have any advice for staying engaged and upbeat?
A. The winter months can be tough for many, with shorter days and chillier weather often leaving us feeling a little less energized. But there are ways to beat the winter blues and stay positive as we embrace the season. December is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Awareness Month, a time to recognize that nearly 16 million Americans experience this condition. Here are some strategies to help you stay active, joyful, and connected:
Maximize Sunlight: Even though the days are shorter, soak up every bit of natural light you can. Take a walk in the morning or spend time in bright indoor spaces. Open your blinds and let the
sunlight in. Light therapy, which simulates sunlight exposure, is another great option to boost your mood.
Move Your Body: Physical activity is a natural mood booster. Moving your body will help you stay physically and mentally engaged. Plus, group activities can offer both exercise and social
benefits, keeping you active and connected.
Boost Heart Health – Gratitude isn’t just good for your mood—it can also benefit your heart. By alleviating symptoms of depression and encouraging better sleep, healthier eating, and regular exercise, practicing gratitude can reduce the risk of heart disease. Several studies even link a grateful mindset with healthier attributes associated with cardiovascular health.
Relieve Stress – Stress can send your mind and body into overdrive, but gratitude helps calm the storm. Taking a moment to reflect on what you’re thankful for can lower blood pressure, slow your heart rate, and promote overall relaxation, making it an effective tool to manage stress.
Nourish Your Body– A well-balanced diet is key to feeling good. Focus on getting plenty of vitamins, minerals, and fresh produce while avoiding excessive carbs. Staying hydrated is equally important drinking enough water can make a big difference in your energy levels.
Stay Social– Spending time with friends and family is one of the best ways to lift your spirits. Share a laugh over a fun game or movie, or simply enjoy each other’s company. Volunteering can also provide a sense of connection while helping you give back.
Plan Joyful Activities– Find something that excites you and make it a part of your routine. Whether it’s picking up a new hobby, learning something new, or creating a winter project, having something to look forward to can make a world of difference. Fill your calendar with these fun commitments.
Manage Stress– Winter can bring extra stress, but relaxation techniques can help. Try yoga or meditation to calm your mind and body. Listening to your favorite upbeat music can also work wonders to lift your mood in the long run.
Prioritize Rest– Rest is essential but be mindful not to oversleep. A consistent sleep schedule will help you feel more energized and productive throughout the day.
Set Achievable Goals– Break larger tasks into smaller, manageable ones and prioritize what needs to be done. Having a clear plan can help you stay motivated and focused.
Remember, you’re not alone in this. If you find that feelings of sadness persist or are affecting your daily life, don’t hesitate to reach out to a doctor or mental health professional. Taking care of yourself during the winter months can make all the difference in how you feel and enjoy the season!
Are you caring for an older adult or need help finding healthy aging resources? Our experienced staff is available to help. Visit us online at www.agespan.org. You can also call 800-892-0890 or email info@agespan.org
First published in the Eagle-Tribune.
