In the ISN family, we absolutely LOVE the holiday season. Getting together with friends and family, eating those once-per-year foods, and getting to celebrate are among our favorite things. And we love the snow, too. There is no denying, however, that the holiday blues are a real thing. Here’s how to beat them.
How to beat the holiday blues
- Take Vitamin D: Vitamin D is important for a number of reasons, principally among them it’s ability to support in fighting disease, boosting weight loss, and reducing depression. Typically, you are able to absorb Vitamin D through your skin by spending time in the sun. However, in the winter months it can get much more difficult to get the appropriate amount of Vitamin D – and low levels can make your mood just as low. In order to fight the holiday blues, supplementing with Vitamin D (we like this one from Puori) can be very effective.
- Exercise: We’ve talked about this before, but exercise has an amazing effect on the brain. In fact, according to leading neuroscientist Wendy Suzuki, exercise may be one of the most transformative things you can do for your brain in any given day. In fact, exercise can positively change your mood and your focus. We often look at exercise as the way to look better, and stay physically healthy; however, the positive effect on your brain may be even more important.
- Spend Time on Yourself: During the holidays, it can be hard to find even a single moment of peace for yourself. You’re going to holiday parties. You’re baking with your friends. You have end-of-year work commitments. All of these things add up to a LOT of human to human interaction. Which is great. Relationships are among the most important pieces of your overall health. However, all of that excess stimulus can have a negative effect. Even for the most intense extroverts, time alone to spend time in your own thoughts, doing something just for yourself, can be very relieving. Things you can do have this positive mood boost include reading, journaling, or getting a massage. Pick something and simply relax for an hour. You may be surprised by the effect it has on the holiday blues.
