How to Combat Winter's Gloomy Days

I live in what is supposed to be "Sunny California". But for the last two weeks, sunny is definitely not the adjective that would describe this state.

Many people really find California's weather so appealing not only because it is perfect for outdoor activities, but because the bright sunny weather really boosts a happy, vibrant over-all disposition. The sunlight playing its rays on the colorful flowers and the warm effect of the sun on the skin are enough reasons to feel so alive and active.

But no one can stop nature once the season starts to bring the rains and the daily gloomy skies. No matter how you dislike it, there is simply nothing that you can to do stop it. The dark clouds, cold winds and dampness are factors that could pull your spirits down. You feel sad, lonely and even the interest to move around seems to just slip away.

Some people go to the extent of feeling so melancholic and depressed. Experts have coined the acronym SAD which is so apt to describe the feeling. Actually it means Seasonal Affective Disorder. This condition sets in when there is lack of sunshine that the person starts to feel lethargic, frustratingly difficult and in very poor over-all feeling. It tends to worsen depression that may even affect pain levels. Physical manifestation includes arthritis.

So what can you do during this rainy, dark and sad days?

1. First of all, MOVE. There is no need to stay under the blankets all day long. This kind of weather truly lures people to stay in bed and be idle and lazy. But try to resist the temptation to hibernate. You may enjoy a good sleep or a quick nap but avoid being sedentary.

You may try to go to fitness clubs or community centers to enjoy various physical activities. Tai chi, tae bo, yoga or pilates would be very good for you. Hitting the treadmill would also loosen up sleeping muscles and would let you break up a sweat.

If you wish to do this kind of activity in the comfort of your homes, you may do so. There are many DVDs that may guide you in doing pilates or tae bo for beginners. To see the nicely sculpted bodies of the people doing these exercises may inspire you more. If you wish to do a simple walk in place, this is also fine. Use the steps of your stairs to exercise also.

2. Take this time to clean up your clutter. Since the year is just starting, it is but timely for you to get rid of all that paper piling up on your desk. File whatever you need to, then shred away all that are unnecessary.

You may want to fix the closets. You and your children might have acquired new clothes during the Christmas season, so it is high time that you re-arrange your drawers, hanged clothes and the rest of your wardrobe cabinets. Probably you may want to give away old ones to friends or the salvation army.

3. Do the things that you've been wanting to do. Is there a recipe that you want to cook? Your friend might have shared with you the ingredients to a yummy treat, so you start pre-heating that oven.

With all the gatherings with friends and family during the Thanksgiving and Christmas, your digital camera might start to be over loaded with pictures. You may start printing them by yourself, or have them printed at Costco. Gathering your scrapbooking materials is not a bad idea. Your gloomy days would be transformed to a lot of colors and designs. Not to mention the fun that you would have as you look at these pictures.

Your new year's resolution list might include "reading more". Then go ahead and make a quick stop to the public library and borrow the books that you've been wanting to read. Remember, reading would always enrich your mind.

Putting your hands on these things would not only give you a sense of accomplishment. It would actually make you feel good about yourself.

4. Be positive. It is never healthy to continuously fret, sulk in one corner and act pitiful. The weather is the weather, but it does not mean that the day and your feelings should also be gloomy. As experts would say, it is you who can choose how you feel. If you would let the dark clouds get into you, what good would that give you? Try to have positive thoughts about situations. Laugh at funny situations and jokes to lighten your mood. Just let go and have fun.

Be aware that it is you who can choose how you feel. And choosing to be happy is always the best choice.

5. Watch what you eat. Experts say that those with SAD tend to crave for carbohydrates. Your sugar level might increase because of this, and this is not good for your health. It would help to take vitamins C & B to assist in reducing listlessness and to help strengthen nerves. Take a lot of water. Herbal teas, especially those made from licorice roots that are highly recommended because they help combat melancholy and depression.