Keep Those Blues Out of Your Winter

By Donna Stark

Unlike the spring and summer seasons, with their bright pops of color, and the fall season with its rich, deep hues, winter is ... well, winter is kind of bland. The colors of winter range from white to grey, and when another color does pop through, it is generally recommended to avoid it at all costs. What color would that be? Well, it's called the winter blues and there is nothing pretty about this shade. 

Keep Those Blues Out of Your Winter

If you are finding that winter is a challenge to get through because your moods change as quickly as the weather, keep reading. There are some simple things to do that can improve your days and reduce the risk of depression, decreased energy, and poor sleep. Take a look.

• Wear bright colors - Sometimes you just have to trick yourself into believing your days are filled with sunshine and the easiest way to do that is to dress in bright colors. Leave the black shirts and grey sweaters on their hangers and pull out your pinks, yellows, and greens. Who knows? Your clothing choices may even brighten up someone else's day too!
• Take your Vitamin D - Low Vitamin D levels can increase the risk of serious diseases, including depression, so make sure you are getting enough each day. Either head outside and get it naturally from the sun, consume foods rich in this vitamin (salmon, milk, eggs, yogurt), or stock up on supplements. It does make a difference!
• Read - Snowy days and cold evenings are the perfect time to escape to another world. Find a comfortable spot in your home and set up a reading nook by adding a cozy blanket and filling a basket with your favorite books. Just be sure there is plenty of light so you aren't straining your eyes.
• Create a healthy circle - Being stuck indoors is one thing but being around negative people is an entirely different beast. The people around you influence you more than you can imagine, so surround yourself with happy, upbeat, and optimistic friends. You may be surprised by how much better you feel in the end.
• Grow an indoor garden - The joys and calming effects that gardening delivers can really make a change in how you feel during the day. Gardening has been shown to reduce stress, increase mental clarity, and improve moods, so why don't you head out to your local nursery today?

Spring Will Come

Don't worry, spring is right around the corner and it will get here sooner than you think. But until then, surround yourself with good people and great habits!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Spartanburg, S.C.