CURE THE WINTER BLUES

Punxsutawney Phil may have said spring is coming early this year, but we've still got another month of winter.  For many of us, this news is hard to stomach.  Just the thought of braving one more shivering-cold morning or trudging through any more snow is enough to drive a person crazy, or straight down to the Flordia Keys for some sun and sand.  But if a beach vacation is out of the question, kick your winter blues at home.

     Prevent sickness
            Being sick isn't fun and it will only make the winter doldrums worse.  Since people seem to be more susceptible to colds and the flu in the wintertime, take measures to prevent them, like frequently washing your hands and drinking plenty of fluids.  For more tips on preventing the common cold and flu, go to www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/cold-guide/11-tips-prevent-cold-flu.

    Live healthfully
            If your winter blues have you feeling sluggish and tired, eat right, exercise and get some sunlight to boost your body and mind.  Sugary food and drinks will weigh you down, so avoid them.  Ask any doctor, and he or she will tell that exercise is one of the best ways to beat the winter blues.  Go for a walk, hit the gym, use your treadmill at home --- do what you have to do to get enough exercise.  And whenever possible, go outside and get some sunlight.  A light therapy box is another option.

    Distract yourself
           Start spring early and remind yourself of summer indoors.  Decorate your home with fresh flowers and houseplants.  Open the blinds and curtains to let in more sunlight.  Hang a calendar of Hawaiian beaches on the wall, or display a painting of flowers.  Listen to upbeat beach music while you make a summertime salad.  Invite your friends over for a luau-themed party and put an umbrella in your drink.  Get a bunch of women together for a summertime clothing swap, or invite the guys over for a fantasy baseball draft.

    Are you SAD ?
           The winte blues can be especially downtrodden for people affected by seasonal affective disorder (SAD).  The seasonal depression occurs during the fall and winter months when there is less natural sunlight.  According to the National Mental Health Association, symptoms may include excessive eating and sleeping, weight gain and carbohydrate cravings.  Other symptoms may include a general lack of energy, slow and lethargic movement, social withdrawal, and decreased interest in work or other activities.
            According to the National Institute of Mental Health, "The depression generally lifts during spring and summer.  SAD may be effectively treated with light therapy, but nearly half of those with SAD do not respond to light therapy alone.  Antidepressant medication and psychotherapy also can reduce SAD symptoms, either alone or in combination with light therapy."

     Vitamin D
            Though the evidence is minimal, some studies have linked low levels of vitamin D to depression, and at least one study reported benefits of vitamin D in treating SAD, according to WebMD.  Our bodies create vitamin D naturally when we are exposed to sunlight.  The lack of sun during the winter months means we're producing less vitamin D on our own.  Eat foods rich in vitamin D like salmon and yogurt, and foods fortified with vitamin D such as orange juice and milk.  Vitamin D supplements are another option.

      Don't hibernate
           We all tend to stay indoors more and socialize less in the winter months, but don't isolate yourself completely.  Sunlight, outdoor exercise, fun activities and socializing with others will help to lift your mood.