26 Ways to Beat Winter Blues
Wear something bright. (That neon orange sweater from 1989 is calling.)
Exercise increases serotonin levels, which in turn helps banish the blues.
Install full-spectrum light bulbs at home.
Don't drink too much! Excessive drinking only perpetuates anxiety and depression. If you are prone to depression around this time of year, keep your alcohol intake to a minimum.
Indulge in cheerful conversation and amusements. (Hey, how about
Eat foods that are good sources of tryptophan: bananas, peanuts, avocados, oats, cottage cheese, turkey and chicken, fish, dried dates, yoghurt, red meat, eggs, sesame, chickpeas, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds.
Omega 3 fats, which are vital for proper brain function and to keep the spirits lifted, while low levels are linked with depression and mood disorders. Omega 3 fats come from oily fish, ground flax seed, specialist oils such as Udo's oil, walnuts and krill oil.
Get more Omega 6 fats. Seeds such as sunflower and pumpkin seeds are rich sources, so try to eat these daily. Flax seed is useful as it contains both omega 3 and 6 fats.
Get a range of minerals: Brazil nuts are one of the best sources of the mood-boosting mineral selenium, while eggs have zinc which helps us feel more alert and energetic.
Get more Calcium and magnesium. They work together to help you feel relaxed and sleep properly, so eat green leafy vegetables and seaweed, which are good sources.
Get rid of stuff.
Grow something.
Read the funnies. (like Past Expiry Cartoon!)
Learn how to do something new. (like reading Past Expiry Cartoon!)
File your taxes early.
Paint a room. (neon orange)
Complete one thing you keep putting off. (like painting your room neon orange)
Get the car washed.
Eat dinner at the table.
Make a change.
Get off the Internet and do some old-fashioned indoor activity. (like cow-tipping)
Get more vitamin D
Get more vitamin B
Ditch white carbs. (White carbs can't jump)
relax and meditate
Listen to music. (Speed metal anyone?)
