Beating the Winter Blues

The tendency around this time of year can be to eat more sugar and lay around on the couch a lot. Try to NOT do this.

1.Even 10 minutes outdoors- a brief walk around the campus or around the block will help you feel more energized. If it’s just too cold, check out the fitness centre – it’s free to all Loyalist students.

2.Sugar does not energize – it has been shown in labs that sugar is a tranquilizer – those of us who turn to sugar at this time of year are trying to tranquilize ourselves. Carbohydrates are a favourite as well- try to avoid the empty ones in junk food and fill up on rice and whole wheat pasta instead.

3.Avoid large amounts of alcohol – it acts as a depressant.

4.Be sure to get the support of your family and friends.

5.Have breakfast every day – this very simple act will benefit you tremendously.

6.And another basic- 7-8 hours of sleep every night.

If you no longer take pleasure in your usual activities, are gaining weight rapidly, sleeping long hours and having despairing thoughts, check in with your doctor or with our campus doctor.

Information on SAD – Seasonal Affective Disorder

http://www.mooddisorders.on.ca/sad.html