Winter days can be dark, gloomy, and bleak – especially with the reduced amount of daylight hours. Even the heartiest of winter lovers can feel down, irritable, and out of sorts during cold weather months. For some, it’s just a case of mild winter blues while others suffer from seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, which begins in the fall and typically ends in the spring.
Fortunately, a few simple home and lifestyle changes can help increase those endorphins and help get you out of this seasonal funk.
Light Therapy – Light therapy involves daily exposure to a particular level of light intensity that typically occurs within the first hour of waking up. This treatment is believed to cause a change in the brain chemicals linked to mood. Consult a doctor to see if light therapy is right for you.
Sleep – If you have trouble sleeping, make sure your sleep space is inviting and comfortable – also, try to stick to a regular sleep schedule. Black-out curtains can block out streetlights while soft, plush bedding and an aromatherapy diffuser can set the mood for a restful night.
Aromatherapy – Speaking of aromatherapy, it is believed that certain essential oils can lift your mood and provide a slight anti-depressant effect. Use a high-quality diffuser, make a potpourri, or simply boil some water in a small pan, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil, and let the scent waft through the air.
Sunrise Alarm – Waking up early can be hard, even more so when it’s still dark outside. A sunrise alarm slowly brightens a room over a set time, much like a sunrise. Get one equipped with an auditory alert to ensure you wake on time.
Lighten Up – Let as much natural light into your home as possible. Trim back tree branches and shrubs that block light, open the curtains and blinds, and work near a window if possible.
Smart Light Bulbs – For those days where natural sunlight is lacking, color-changing light bulbs offer a full spectrum of light including daylight to help you feel more alert and energized throughout the day.
Exercise and Eat Right – Healthy habits can help relieve anxiety and stress while improving mood and self-esteem. Keep healthy, easily accessible food on hand, put a healthy twist on your favorite comfort food, and go for a walk or designate an area in your home for daily exercise.
Fresh Air – Head outside for at least 10 minutes a day to get some fresh air and natural vitamin D. Try a morning or lunch-time walk. If the weather is mild, enjoy lunch or snack al fresco.
Refresh Your Space – Whether it’s a fresh, light color on your walls, rearranging furniture, or adding new lighting, artwork, and accessories, even the slightest change to a room can improve mood and help you feel more comfortable at home.
Greenery – Houseplants not only brighten up a space, they can reduce stress, improve mood, and make the indoor air you breath healthier. Now that’s something to smile about.
Do you know what else can sour your mood during the winter months? A huge spike in your heating bills or no indoor heat at all. To ensure you experience neither, contact Optimum Air today to schedule a heating system tune-up and inspection. It’s the best way to ensure season-long indoor comfort, longer equipment life, and reduced utility bills.