September 1, 2006, Newsletter Issue #82: Winter Blues: Psych-tips, Issue 21

Tip of the Week

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My Tip of the Week: Avoiding the Winter Blues
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Over the past few weeks, we´ve discussed Seasonal Affective Disorder, often referred to as the winter blues. This week we continue our discussion with tips on how to avoid the blues.

- Carefully manage your sleep patterns. Get to bed and rise at set times every day.

- Get more light. Use full-spectrum light bulbs, which are brighter than our everyday lights. Keep your curtains open during the day.

- Eat plenty of complex carbohydrates such as fresh fruits and vegetables.

- Get plenty of exercise; it has been shown to be an effective antidote to bouts of depression. A daily walk outside will help.

- Learn ways to manage stress

- Get moving. Depression responds to exercise, period. Aerobic forms are best, or try some simple stretches in the morning light.

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My Recommended Site of the Week
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For more information about SAD, see:

http://www.marshfieldclinic.org/cattails/winter99/sad.htm


Tara Kuther, Ph.D., is a professor of developmental psychology and freelance writer. Visit her latest site, ImprovingMe.com, for self improvement, self help, and personal growth resources. http://www.ImprovingMe.com

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