Parish Nursing

It is the middle of winter in Wisconsin and it seems like spring is a long way off.  We have had some long stretches of gray, gloomy weather, with little or no sunlight.  This can lead to feelings of mild depression and a condition called “body blues”.  Common symptoms are overeating, weight gain, low energy, tension and irritability.  Thinking may become foggy, we become more sensitive, have a low mood and mild anxiety.  All of these effect our quality of life, relationships and thus our overall health.  The triggers are… Stress,  Sedentary Life, and Lack of Sunlight.

What can we do to banish body blues?

Light up your life

Spend more time outdoors.  Even on an overcast day, you can receive enough light to elevate your mood.

Have your chair face a window if possible

Take light breaks at work; walk at lunch

Brighten up the indoors; buy a light box if necessary

 Walk away from body blues

Get out and walk 20 minutes daily

Find an enjoyable outdoor activity

Dress for the weather so you can stay outside longer

Let the light shine into your eyes

Learn about the
vitamins and minerals that combat stress

B vitamins increase energy levels

Folic acid helps in depression

Vitamin D is needed in higher doses during winter months

Selenium helps improve mood

To really have success, you need to make time to care for your self.  To have the most powerful effect, combine all 3 components.  Find a friend or family member to take along with you.  Ask for help if you need it!

If there is light in the soul,
there is beauty in the person.

If there is beauty in the person,
there is harmony in the house.

If there is harmony in the house,
there is order in the nation.

If there is order in the nation,
there will be peace in the world.

Peace and Light, 
Heidi Anderson