Fit Tip: Beat Back the Winter Blues with Exercise
Posted on December 3, 2012 at 7:00 am
Monday Morning Fit Tip:
BEAT BACK THE WINTER BLUES
WITH EXERCISE
The days are getting shorter and the temperature is dropping. As winter begins some people feel the ”winter blues,” which consists of symptoms like lack of motivation, fatigue, low energy, feelings of slight depression*, and craving comfort foods (that aren’t usually healthy). Exercise is a great way to help avoid these feelings because it provides stress relief and releases endorphins, or “feel good” hormones.
Vitamin D also plays an important role in our mood, along with maintaining strong bones and muscles, and keeping the heart healthy. During the warmer months we receive Vitamin D from sunlight, but decreased sun exposure in the winter can cause a Vitamin D deficiency and an increase in the “winter blues.” To counteract this, try consuming more Vitamin D in fortified foods like cereal or through a supplement.
*If you experience severe symptoms or think you have a Vitamin D deficiency, talk to a medical professional.
Ask a trainer if you have any questions, we’re always here to help!
