Let’s face it, the days are short (although slowly getting longer) and the weather forecast typically includes ice cold rain, slurpy slush snow, and high winds and gusts.

Basically, the nicer days with sunshine are few and far between.

Factor in not going outside much, the lack of natural sunlight, and recovering from the holidays no wonder why many folks can feel mildly down at times.

Here are 6 Lifestyle & Home Remedies to Try to Get in a Better Mood…

Go Outside.

If you’re not a fan of cold weather and outdoor winter sports, taking a stroll – even if it’s just for 10 to 20 minutes three times a week – is helpful for chasing away the winter blues.

Look at a 7-day forecast and plan ahead. Schedule mini walks and outings on “the better days.” Taking advantage of the perfect weather days with no icy rain, slushy snow, or windchill warnings is a far more enjoyable way to get some fresh air, and you’ll likely stick with a routine.

Find a Sunny Spot.

Whether you’re at home or working in an office, try to take time out for a small break to enjoy a sunny area. Relax or read in a chair near a window with plenty of sunshine that enters the room.   Take a call with a friend or colleague while standing in the sun. Let the sun’s rays warm your face, eyes closed. There’s nothing like basking in the sun on a cold winter day.

Light Therapy Works.

Light therapy lamps and bulbs are easy to find online and some of the larger retailers carry them. These products deliver full-spectrum, bright white light therapy, so it’s like taking in a daily dose of sunshine. The broad-spectrum light therapy includes wavelengths between 280-320 nm. This allows the skin to produce vitamin D.

Get Moving.

There’s something to be said about exercising. Join a gym, and if you’re already a member somewhere, then make a mental note to be there more regularly. Working out isn’t just for new year resolutioners who want to lose weight and get fit. The physical and emotional benefits are plentiful.

While doing errands, take advantage of a large chain store or grocery store. When shopping, make sure to walk in all of the aisles several times, not just the ones you need items from that are on your shopping list.

Go to the mall and walk inside, making the rounds a few times. Sometimes malls give early morning access to walkers and joggers during the wintertime.

All of these places have fluorescent lighting and sometimes skylights, too, which can trick the brain into feeling like you’re enjoying the great outdoors. It’s a good way to socialize and interact with others as well.

Experience the Greenhouse Effect.

Find an indoor pool nearby. The pool area retains warm humid air and fluorescent lighting imitates the sun. Water is quite therapeutic, both physically and emotionally. Yes, even in the northeast you can pretend like it’s summer and you’re on vacation.

Plan a Mini Vacation “South of Here.”

For those who can get away, start planning a vacation to a warmer climate. Even if you can’t go until several months out, like Spring Break, there’s something wonderfully uplifting about the idea of planning and plotting a mini escape to take your mind off of the cold and gloomy days.

Looking on the bright side, springtime isn’t that far away!

Do You Have Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?

Feeling mildly depressed sometimes happens to the best of us. However, if you think you’re experiencing a severe form of winter depression then Four Seasons Therapy, a family counseling practice in Sherman, can help.

To make an appointment with a Four Seasons Therapy Counselor, call: 860.750.4480

Most insurance plans are accepted.

Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday, 7 a.m. to Noon, or by appointment.

Address: 1 Route 37 East, 2nd Floor, Unit #6, Sherman, CT (Second Location: Bridgeport, CT)

This article by Alicia Sakal is sponsored by…

FOUR SEASONS THERAPY

Four Seasons Therapy professionals counsel individuals, couples, and families who need to be in a healthier state of mind.

Fritz Maignan, executive director, holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Albertus Magnus and a master’s degree in counseling from Southern Connecticut State University. He has been a counselor for 19 years and has owned his practice for ten years.

Visit Four Seasons Therapy on Facebook.

Photo Credit: Joe de Sousa – winter tree, Oakley Originals – outdoor walkers, Leonardo Dasilva – winter sun, JJBers – Danbury Fair Mall (Flickr.com)

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