Cold Weather Blues???

Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the fact that during the fall and winter months, we only have about 10 hours of real daylight? Most people rise around 6am and work till at least 6pm, which means that the majority of people do not have any freetime during daylight hours. If you live in the Chicago area, you may also experience a sense of cabin fever brought on by the bitter cold, relentless wind and the unpredictable temperature changes. What some of you may not know, is that there is a clinical reason why you feel quitting your job, selling your home and running off to a warm weather climate. It is called Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD. Don't panic...there are solutions to this nagging yet temporary depression. Carol E. Watkins, MD suggests some very realistic ideas to curb the "Winter Blues".

1. Take some time out of your day to get outside and soak up some of the natural light.
2. Light therapy--spectrum light (minus UV rays) is beneficial because it is closest to natural light.
3. Take a warm weather vacation to rejuvenate the spirit.
4. Start a daily exercise routine.
5. Do things that bring you pure satisfaction and enjoyment.
6. Be charitable with your time and money during the holidays.
7. Smile

Before you get ready to pack your bags and move, try some of these simple tips...they could make the difference between dreading the winter and looking forward to the most celebrated season of all!

Good Luck!