Practical Tips to Boost Your Well-Being During the Winter Months

Self-care is an important part of life in any season, but it becomes especially crucial during the long winter months, when many people are affected to varying degrees by the “winter blues.” Those habits that are easy to keep up in the summer – exercise, healthy eating, socializing – tend to take a backseat in winter. Faced with shorter days, less sunlight and cold temperatures, it’s easy to neglect your mental and physical well-being.

Let’s take a look at some important ways to care for yourself during the winter months.

• Soak up the sunshine. Lack of exposure to sunlight has been linked to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), so be sure to get some sun each day. Whenever possible, bundle up and get outdoors for a walk or to play in the snow with the kids. You can even sit by a window during the day. Remember, some exposed skin is required for your body to absorb the sun’s rays and produce vitamin D, so don’t cover up completely.

• Eat well. It’s a natural reaction to crave comfort foods when we’re feeling down, and often those comfort foods include excess carbohydrates and fat. To counter these cravings, try eating a high-protein breakfast to keep your energy levels up throughout the day. Keep healthy, low-fat snacks on hand when you need an afternoon snack.

• Get social. Social connection inspires social, emotional and physical well-being. Plan lunch with an old friend, play games with your family, volunteer with a local charity or take your dog for a walk. These activities can help to relieve stress and combat feelings of loneliness.

• Seek professional help. If you are struggling with feelings of depression, consider seeking help from a licensed therapist at Sound Mind Therapy. Professional counseling services can help you explore and understand your emotions, and work toward finding treatments and tools to achieve overall well-being.

To schedule an appointment for counseling services, call Sound Mind Therapy at (314) 499-9144 or complete our online appointment request form. We serve residents of St. Charles, Chesterfield and surrounding suburbs of St. Louis, MO.