If you're like me and live in a northern city, you know it can get depressing during the winter because of cloudy days and freezing temperatures. I started noticing that during the winter, I was less happy. It was more difficult to get out of bed, all I wanted to do was stay in my bed all day long on my computer. I started doing some research and found out that there's a reason why I was depressed during the winter, and it's called Seasonal affective disorder. Through out the years, I've learned new routines that makes me feel happier during winter and keep me motivated.
Vitamin D:
Seasonal depression can be caused by lack of vitamin D. We get our main source of vitamin D by sunlight, and during the winter most people don't get the recommend vitamin D dose. Getting your vitamin levels checked during the winter by a doctor can make a great difference.
Stay Active:
During cloudy days, it can be hard to find motivation to stay active, because you want to stay in bed, wrapped around a blanket. Exercise can boost your mood, and make you feel better. So make sure you get daily exercise during the winter to improve your mental health.
Get Social:
It's easy to cancel plans with friends, when the weather is bad. Being isolated can trigger feelings of depression. So make sure you socialize even when the weather isn't perfect. Instead of being home alone, you can invite friends over, make some hot chocolate and watch movies.
Eat Healthy:
I don't know about you, but I gain a lot of weight during winter, and I often feel insecure because of it. To prevent that you should eat a plant based diet, that way you can make sure you're getting all your vitamins and minerals. And when spring comes around you'll feel amazing because you have't gained weight from eating junk food.
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