You can probably imagine that January is the most depressing month of the year, but have you ever heard about Blue Monday, January 19, 2015? Many people consider it to be the most depressing day of the whole year. Who knew!?
I know myself, that I suffer from seasonal depression. SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) is a form of depression that hits about the same time every year, usually during the fall/winter months. For me, I notice it hits me mostly January- March. I lack my usual energy, happiness, and motivation. Short of moving to Aruba for the winter, which I’m NOT opposed to, I have had to find ways to manage my SAD.
In January, I try to set goals that are short term and not weight related. Sometimes it’s as simple as trying two new recipes, getting together with a friend, or getting a pedicure. Keeping the goals low-key and simple help me accomplish them and then I feel satisfied and in control.
While the last thing I want to do is eat healthy when I’m feeling blue, I force myself to eat ‘summer foods’ when possible. Making smoothies with frozen fruits, fresh bright salads and grilled chicken can sometimes transport me to the warmer weather days. Sometimes even an iced coffee helps me remember summer’s not that far away.
When weather permits, I take a walk around my neighborhood. The exercise and sunlight, when I can get it, really help. Some of the best moments in the dead of winter come from me just standing, head straight up to the sun, taking in all the vitamin D I can get.
A few years ago my cousin actually gave me a desktop light therapy lamp. I have to say it did help with my SAD…but sadly didn’t help my tan. Speaking of tanning, by mid-February, as I’m shoveling snow and cursing Mother Nature, I start to remember the mantra, “Summer bodies are made in the winter,” and get my behind to the gym.
Hopefully, if you have been feeling unusually blue recently, this can help you manage your winter blues. If you have any suggestions, I’m always looking for new things to make the winter seem shorter, so please share!
