Good Lifestyle

If you don't feel the holiday spirit this year, you are barely alone. While the coldest months come with a lot to celebrate, many of us always feel depressed during this period. The darkest days can have a negative effect on your Mental Health , leading you to feel more sad and darker in winter than you in summer. But there are ways to take control of your mood during changing seasons. Read more to discover the nine most effective ways to fight winter blues, according to the therapists.

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Giving your mind something else on which you concentrate other than the dark and dreary days could be everything you need to spend the winter.

"If you have always wanted to learn to crochet or take Spanish lessons, now is the moment", " KayTee Gillis , Lcsw, approved psychotherapist Work with the choice of therapy, said.

According to Gillis, starting a new hobby or a new skill by registering in a class or watching online videos can have a positive effect on your mental health.

"This will engage your brain in a way that will increase serotonin and other well-being chemicals that will help stimulate mood," she explains.

Although you can be tempted to spend more time locking yourself inside your room when it is cold, this could be an important factor in your winter blues. This is why taking the time to socialize is so important at the moment, according to Neuropsychologist based in Miami Aldrich Chan , Psyd.

"Social interaction is crucial for mental well-being", notes Chan. "So don't forget to spend time with friends and family, join social groups or clubs and participate in activities that bring you joy."

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The sun sets so much earlier during the winter, but it is always necessary to obtain at least a little sun every day, according to Jennifer Kelman , Lcsw, approved therapist Work with just the answer.

"Although you don't get the necessary Vitamin D From the winter sun, the feeling of the sun on your face can give an edifying sensation, "she shares.

In fact, "the lack of sun is a common trigger for the winter blues", explains Chan. So, if you don't get enough from the real sun during this period, you may want to try light therapy.

"This implies an exposure to a lively light that imitates the natural light of the sun and can help regulate your mood," he explains.

Sometimes just having something concrete to wait during the winter "can cheer up", according to Chan.

"Plan a ski holiday, register for a course or a workshop, or make arrangements to spend time with a friend," he suggests.

You can even consider saving and planning a getaway in a warmer place, adds Kelman.

"Any vacation is restorative, but nothing is better than a respite from the cold to be on an island to fight winter blues," she said. "Plan something for January or February, so there is something to hope for when fall is going on and when you come back from the trip, spring is just at the corner of the street."

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Do not underestimate how much your regular routine can help you feel more relaxed during the winter.

"When it is dark and dreary outside, it is easy to stay in bed or on the sofa all day," warns Gillis. "But, as difficult be difficult, try to stick to a routine."

This can include things like getting up on time, going to bed on time and following your tasks in the house, according to the psychotherapist.

"This will help your mind stay on the task and help motivation and mood," she said.

Physical activity is important for your overall health at any time of the year. But during winter, it can play a huge role in helping you get the sunlight necessary every day and improve your mental health. AE0FCC31AE342FD3A1346EBB1F342FCB

"Make some lively walks throughout the day," advises Kelman. "If you are going to work and go home in the dark, try to go out during your lunch break for a fast walk. Turn your face to the sun and breathe in the crisp air."

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It is natural to feel that everything you want to do is curl up on your sofa and eat comforting foods while waiting for winter. But poor diet at this time of year can help you feel more lowered than you usually do.

"On the other hand, eating a balanced and nutritious diet can have a positive impact on your mood," said Chan. He recommends that people "avoid excessive consumption of sugary and processed foods".

You may be more tempted to get your phone or turn on the TV when you stay inside and outside the cold. But Gillis said Better life that it is preferable for people to reduce their screen time during the winter, because it has been demonstrated "affect the mood in a negative way, because we look at others to have a good time while we are at the Interior, we feel sad ".

Instead, Gillis recommends reading a book. If you want to watch something, put a show or a film that takes place in summer.

"The simple fact of seeing the sun and the heat can help increase your mood," she shares.

Mindfulness and relaxation techniques can be useful well-being tools at any time of the year. But they are "particularly effective in managing the symptoms of winter blues", according to Chan.

"Remember to try meditation, deep breathing and yoga," he said. "All this can help reduce stress and improve overall mental health."

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