(Courtesy of Health Promotion and Wellness)This season has always been a more difficult time for those of us that experience, cold, dark and gloomy winters, especially in Chicago. With the layered on effect of the pandemic, we have to be even more vigilant in taking care of our health and wellness. Here are some strategies to fight the winter blues and take care of ourselves.
1. Make time for movement
We naturally spend less time outdoors during the winter. Moving your body is not only good for the body but the mind as well. Try some winter activities like skiing, ice skating or running outdoors. Make time for stretching and yoga to tend to any aching muscles or sore body parts.
2. Create time to be social
It can be easy to hunker down in your home and say no to social activities, especially now as we have less options to be social with one another. Instead, plan for at least one weekly social experience, whether that’s with one person or a group of people on a video call.
DePaul students: Do you want to be more social and make more friends?
Consider joining "You, Me, We," a weekly program to help you meet new people and care for your relationships. Join our Tuesday or Thursday groups.
3. Improve your sleep routine
This is a great time to adjust your sleep schedule to help you get enough sleeping hours each night. We recommend going to sleep and waking up at the same times each day to help you stick to your routine. Also consider powering down your electronics at least 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime. For more sleep tips, join the "
Refresh Sleep" program.
4. Consider light therapy or Vitamin D supplements
Experts believe the winter blues, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder, is triggered by the change in exposure to sunlight in the winter. A great alternative can be a daily light therapy lamp to help you wake up and brighten your mood, or a Vitamin D supplement. Before adding either of these to your routine, always talk with your doctor to see if these could be good alternatives for you. Light therapy is not recommended for everyone, such as those with diabetes or retinopathies, or who are taking certain medications.
Questions about caring for your health and wellness? Email
hpw@depaul.edu to schedule a wellness coaching appointment today.