By Carl Powell,  Fitness Expert

Beating the Winter Blues

Each year just after Holiday Season many people suffer from the Winter Blues or what is now referred to as Seasonal Affective Disorder.
In the middle of this economic recession, with job loss and belt tightening all around, an estimated 35% of the population will suffer from a mild to severe form of SAD this year. 

Some of the SAD symptoms include: 
•         Changes in sleeping and eating habits
•         Persistent sad, angry, anxious, or “empty” mood
•         Loss of pleasure in activities once enjoyed

Tips for beating being SAD

• Laugh, Smile, Touch - They all have been proven to decrease the body’s level of stress hormones and increase the level of endorphins, leading to a greater sense of well-being

• Practice Preventive Health Care – In general, just take good care of yourself. Avoid compulsive activities such as drinking, smoking and over eating.

• Assess your financial situation before going shopping – Avoid over spending by paying in cash. 

• Exercise at least 2.5 hours a week – This is an easy time of year to become lethargic. You can be creative here; try doing 20 minutes of “Mall walking” or walking the stairs of your home or office. You may also want to find a Yoga class to help you reduce stress.

• Journal the positive parts of your day before going to bed – Positive thoughts before bed lead to a better nights rest.

• Be sure to get at least 7 hours of sleep each night – If you can, try taking an afternoon nap. A growing number of scientific studies are showing that taking a power-nap can prevent burnout and boost your energy level.

• Control what you can control, release what you can not control – Excessive worry only leads to stress overload.

Have a happy healthy 2009, Carl

www.carlpowell,com
www.themagnificentbody.com