How to feel better and stay healthy in the middle of winter

I don’t know about you, but the time between New Year’s Day and Easter seems to drag on.

It’s cold out, often icy and snowy, dark in the morning and early at night, and there isn’t much in the way of events going on in terms of holidays and such. It’s easy to feel like life drags on.

In fighting the “winter blues”, there are always ways to keep yourself in a better mental and physical state, even if all we want to do is sleep until spring.

Move

Even ten minutes helps. Walk, stretch, go up and down the stairs, just move. It helps improve mental health, and physical health as well. The start of a new year and a new semester is a great time to start. Even small steps are progress.

If you feel ambitious, hit the gym. The NDSU Wellness Center has everything you need, from free weights to cable machines, a pool and sauna, a rock wall, stationary bikes, treadmills, fitness classes and so much more.

Get Some Light

As always, this time of year, the sunshine is weak and daylight is short. Make a point to open the curtains for a vitamin D boost. Light also improves your mood, helps regulate your sleep cycle and helps with cognitive functions. 

You can purchase sunlamps for under $50.00 on Amazon, if you feel you need a boost, but this definitely isn’t necessary for everyone. Listen to what your body needs. 

Stay Disciplined

It’s easy, after the first few weeks of the semester, to start letting yourself slide. Keeping on top of homework and other to-do items makes it easier to stay organized, thus lowering stress and anxiety levels. Whether it’s keeping an agenda, making lists on your phone, sticky notes on your laptop or whatever works best for you, knowing what needs to be done and when to do it is always beneficial.

Stay Hydrated

Water helps to improve energy levels, flush toxins from the body, clear brain fog, bring nutrients throughout the body and numerous other benefits. Adding a water bottle to your supplies is never a bad idea. If plain water isn’t your thing, consider sugar-free sparkling water or other flavor options.

Conclusion

Winter doesn’t have to be endless. Taking care of yourself and keeping on top of homework and other responsibilities helps keep the anxiety and stress from building up. Yes, it’s cold and icy, and it’s dark a lot, but that doesn’t mean we have to succumb to our circumstances. Remember that oftentimes, a little bit goes a long way.