Avoid the Winter Blues!

Avoid the Winter Blues this year! Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of seasonal depression triggered by the change in seasons, occurring primarily in Winter. About 4 to 6 percent of United States

residents suffer from SAD, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians, and as many as 20 percent may have a mild form of it that starts when the days get shorter and colder. “It is important to treat
SAD, because all forms of depression limit people’s ability to live their lives to the fullest, to enjoy their families, and to function well at work,” says Deborah Pierce, M.D., M.P.H.

A recent Huffington Post article details that seasonal mood shifts often include less energy, feeling less social, losing interest in favorite activities, having cravings for carbs, and negative changes in sleep patterns. Author Sarah DiGiulio shares some of her cold weather pick-me-ups:

1. Let the sunshine in! The lack of sunlight, during winter months, contributes to an individual’s low mood. Lift your spirits by opening the blinds and taking a walk outside in the morning sun!
2. Exercising can be a major mood enhancer and stress buster. One workout a day can keep the winter blues at bay!
3. Eating right! Your diet can impact your mood and energy. Focus on fruits, vegetables, proteins, complex carbohydrates, and drinking plenty of water while avoiding simple carbs and sugars.
4. Spending quality time with friends can help relieve stress and improve your overall well-being. Positive social interactions and engaging in shared hobbies/activities will surely lift your mood!

EMPOWER Leadership Sports & Adventure Center also has some great ideas for cold weather mood-busters!

1. Take a moment to help someone who is in need. Donate non-perishable food items to Middletown's Amazing Grace Food Pantry or donate a coats, jackets, gloves and hats to a local Winter Clothing Program.
2. Shovel a neighbors walk and drive way - exercise is a great way to break out of a winter funk!
3. Volunteer your time at a local shelter or food pantry.
4. If you are searching holiday gift idea, EMPOWER can help. Awesome deals on Adventure Experiencegifts for individuals, couples, family members and friends!
5. Take part in a community holiday event - such as Middletown's Holiday on Main
6. Enter for a chance to win a trip for (2) to Tampa, Florida sponsored by EMPOWER Leadership Sports & Adventure Center in partnership with Empower Adventures Tampa Bay and Innisbrook Golf Resort.

At the end of the day, avoiding negative shifts in your mood will come from making opportunities to share time with friends and family members, taking time for "play" with your significant other, a niece of nephew, or a pet, getting outside to exercise, or taking up a new hobby! Enjoy the winter months, spring will be here before we know it!