Do you get the winter blues? Are you feeling SAD?

Guess what?

You could have a disorder called SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder).

Winter depression has a sound medical base. The body reacts to light, or lack thereof. To the right are simple solutions to this very common problem:

1. Soak in light. Sit by windows whenever possible. Change the bulbs in your house to “full spectrum” bulbs. Buy the cheapest light fixture possible that can hold four foot long fluorescent bulbs. Replace the fluorescent bulbs to “grow” lights. Expose yourself to their light for 1 to 2 hours per day.

2. Exercise. Yes, once again, exercise is a cure to almost all that ails us! Bundle up and go outside. Take the family ice skating, attempt skiing, walk the dog, have a snowball fight, learn to ice fish, study snowflakes, make snow angels, or race the kids around the block. Any activity will do as long as you are outside!

3. Eat your fruits and vegetables. Winter is too easy for the yummy comfort food! It just tastes better. Try to shift the balance. Eat more lean meats, fruits, vegetables and occasionally treat yourself to that delicious, but unhealthy tasty favorite.

4. Tell yourself to feel better. The mind is a powerful tool when used for the positive. When you wake up, tell yourself you are going to feel wonderful today. Look outside, smile and embrace the day. Stick to that positive attitude and watch a beautiful day unfold.

5. Visit friends. Social events are VERY important during the dark winter months. Plan events with friends. Stay in touch on the internet and phone with the faraway friends/family, or the already too busy group. Most importantly though, be social… 50% of the general public are feeling the same as you.

Always check with your doctor if symptoms are severe or persistent.