subject: 4 Tips To Improve Your Mood This Christmas [print this page] Christmas is normally a time that is associated with happiness and joy. However, this is not always the case. For some people, the cold weather, the lack of family and friends or even seasonal affective disorder (a form of winter depression that is often abbreviated to SAD) can have an adverse effect on their mood. If you are suffering from the winter blues then I am here to help with 4 tips to improve your mood this Christmas.
1) EAT SOME MOOD BOOSTING FOODS:
Your diet can have a serious impact on how you feel. Eating too many low quality foods can cause your blood sugar levels to surge and then fall rapidly leaving you feeling tired and moody. This is a particular problem over Christmas when tasty treats are constantly on offer. Eating the right foods can have the opposite effect and make you feel positive and upbeat. For example, drinking tea has been shown to reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Studies have shown that dark chocolate, nuts and salmon also have similar mood boosting properties.
2) EXERCISE REGULARLY:
Exercise can help improve your mood in multiple ways. For starters, it causes your body to release endorphins and serotonin (2 substances that can boost your mood). In addition to this, it is a great way to clear your mind by allowing you to temporarily escape from the stresses of day to day life.
3) TRY A LIGHT BOX:
If you notice that your mood always drops around this time of year you may suffer from SAD. This form of winter depression affects around 7% of the UK population and can lead to irritability, sleep problems, stress and more. The good news is that 85% of SAD cases can be treated effectively with the use of a light box (a specially designed, light emitting box that can be purchased from many retailers).
4) SLEEP WELL:
Failing to get enough sleep can make you grumpy and miserable at any time of year. However, over Christmas you generally get less sleep because your social calendar is a lot fuller. So around this time of year it is extra important that you focus on sleeping well. Taking naps and having the occasional early night are 2 great methods you can use to catch up on your sleep.
SUMMARY:
As I said at the beginning of this article, Christmas is not a time that many people associate with being down in the dumps. However, if you feel like your mood needs picking up this year give these strategies a try. Not only will they help improve your mood but they will also help you keep your diet and exercise routine in check over the festive period.
