By Suhel Singh Randhawa
Editor, LA&PS Voices
The mercury has dropped. The sun has hidden itself behind grey clouds. The sky showers us with snow and freezing rain. Our shoulders now bear not only the burden of studies and work, but also the weight of heavy parkas that protect us from the cold weather.
Winter is here.
The arrival of winter brings along a wave of cold that chills not only our bodies, but also our hearts. Looking outside the window is not as fun as it once was because the red and yellow hues of the trees, the lush green grass, and the blue skies of fall have been replaced with bare stems, dark, wet grass, and grey skies that can catch us by surprise and drench us in rain. All of this can result in a case of the winter blues.
But don’t worry! Here are some tips to help you beat the winter blues!
Schedule your day
Follow a routine with a specified time of waking up and a specific bedtime. Make sure you get seven or more hours of sleep every night to maintain your health.
See the sun
The sun hides behind grey clouds on most days, so when it comes out, make the best of it! Go out for a walk or hang out with your friends! Exposure to sunlight can improve your mood and help your body manufacture vitamin D. You can also take a vitamin D supplement in the winter to keep up with your body's needs.
Eat healthy
As tempting as pizza every day sounds, eating fast food can have adverse effects on your health. Try eating a balanced diet and prefer homecooked meals. You can also subscribe to a tiffin/meal kit service, which can deliver home-cooked food to you every day.
Also, it is okay to occasionally indulge in foods that bring you joy, such as hot chocolate, pizza, etc.
Exercise
Working out has been proven to boost mood and reduce stress. You can start off by working out for 30 minutes a day for a few days a week, and progress towards increasing the frequency and duration of your workout. You can try aerobics, Pilates, yoga, and even strength training from the comfort of your home.
Try to go out
Whenever the weather allows, try going out for a walk. Spending time in nature, taking in the beauty of the landscape can have a great effect on your mood.
Engage in social activity
Winter can cause isolation which feeds the depressive mood. Hanging out with friends helps boost your mood a lot. You should schedule your time in a way that allows time for social interaction.
Also, make an effort to talk to people in classes; the person sitting next to you in your early morning class may end up being a lifelong friend!
Try light therapy
This involves using a daylight bulb, which simulates outside light, and sitting next to it for an hour or so. It is known to improve one’s mood. These lamps, also called SAD lamps, are affordable and can easily be bought online.
Don’t hesitate to seek help
If you are not able to feel better, do not hesitate in seeking help. Reach out to your friends and family, and if you feel the need, visit a professional too.
There are resources available at York Student Counselling, Health & Well-being website which can help you.
In a few short months, the trees will be full, the grass will be green, the sky blue and full of sunshine, and people will be back on the streets.
But until then, I wish you a safe winter, full of prosperity and peace.