1. Beating the Winter Blues
Combating Seasonal Affective Disorder

2. What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Seasonal Affective Disorder is characterized by the onset of depressive symptoms such as:
Lethargy
Sadness
Withdrawal from friends and family
Asymptomatic aches and pains during a specific season.

3. Seasonal Blues
Most people experience Seasonal Affective Disorder during the winter, hence the nickname “winter blues”.
The common cause is attributed to the decreased exposure to natural light during winter months.

4. Seasonal Blues and Diet
Most people who experience Seasonal Affective Disorder notice an increased craving for carbohydrates and sugary snacks.
Keep a food journal during the winter months to track your diet.

5. Curb the Cravings
This is our bodies’ way of supplementing the natural energy that we absorb from the sun with caloric energy from easy to digest carbohydrates and sugars.
Keep healthy snacks such as almonds, carrot sticks, and celery handy, especially between 3-6pm, when cravings are at their peak.

6. How to Combat the Winter Blues
Light Therapy: Research has shown the benefit of controlled exposure to specialized light boxes. Regular exposure to sunlight during winter months can help to combat the Winter Blues.
Find a spot that has great southern exposure indoors and soak up the beneficial natural light during the day to boost your mood!

7. Beating the Blues
Regular Exercise: Exercise can help to release endorphins, our natural ‘feel good’ hormone. Exercise also helps to increase energy levels and metabolism rates.
Try exercising during peak sun hours, 11am-2pm, to get an added boost of natural energy!