3 Ways to Conquer the Mid-Winter Blahs

Last week I promised a post about the mid-winter blahs. It's not unusual to feel depressed and out-of-sorts after the holidays. The anticipation of the holidays is over. We feel a type of letdown with the loss of busyness. And, depending on where you live, the weather is the opposite of helpful: cold and gloomy and bleak.

We want to fly away to sunny beaches, but if that isn't possible, here are a three ways to overcome the after-holiday sadness.

1. Brighten it up

We desire sunshine, but the only sunny days seem to be the most frigid. Less light means our bodies produce less serotonin, the chemical that, among other things, regulates and contributes to our well-being and happiness. Emily Deans, M.D., wrote in a 2011 article for psychologytoday.com, "Light therapy and serotonin-increasing medications are both effective treatments for depression that occurs with low levels of sunlight. Light exposure increases serotonin in humans, and serotonin levels are lowest in midwinter, and higher on bright days no matter what time of year."

So to increase serotonin, and combat the winter blues, consider investing in a light therapy box. Even 30 minutes a day can make a difference. But if that isn't feasible, open the curtains. I enjoy sitting in my car at the park with a book and a cup of coffee; sun streaming through the windshield is a joy if nothing else.

2. Watch what you eat

OK, we're all feeling as stuffed as the Thanksgiving turkey. Turkey and cookies and candy and hors d'oeuvres at the endless round of parties and concerts have left us feeling guilty if not downright ill. We know the stacks of carbohydrates aren't good for us, but we excuse it as just part of the holidays.

Whether or not you believe in New Year's resolutions, changing your winter diet may help combat the winter blahs. Carbs weigh us down, physically and emotionally. The euphoria that bowl of pasta provides is fleeting. Instead of the usual comfort food, try bananas, salmon, eggs, nuts, and ginger tea. Check out a foodmatters.com article for more ideas on what t have for dinner.

3. Dance it out

It's counter-intuitive, but when you feel tired and worn down, try exercise. According to helpguide.org, exercise changes your brain, reduces inflammation, promotes a feeling of well-being, releases the feel-good chemicals called endorphins, and offers a distraction from worries and anxiety.

Any exercise will do. Walking or running outdoors will get you moving and also expose you to that ever-illusive sunlight. Yoga or Pilates will make you limber and relaxed. No matter what exercise you prefer, consider your choice of music. When I taught middle school, we would take a mid-morning "brain break" to the tune of "Good Morning" by Mandisa and "Shake" by mercy me. If I were still teaching, I'd add "Happy" by Pharrell.

Most of us can't afford to spend three or four months on a tropical island, but try these ideas the next time winter threatens to overtake you.