I'm a Nutritionist. Here's How I Boost My Happiness When It's Cold Outside

Meghan is a writer for MindBody Green:

For those of us who live in cold or northern climates, dark and chilly winters can bring on the doldrums. We don't want to wear anything other than sweatpants, we gorge on comfort foods in front of the TV, or simply feel an overall sadness from the snowy weather, the lack of sunshine, and being cooped up indoors.

Fortunately, there are some quick, simple, and inexpensive things you can do to boost your spirits when it's cold outside. Here are some of my favorite things to do when I need an emotional lift. (Of course, if you suspect you have seasonal affective disorder or another kind of depression, please consult your health practitioner.)

1. Get fresh air and light.

When it's cold outside, the last thing you might want to do is step out of your warm cocoon of fuzzy slippers and blankets to venture into the great outdoors. But it's important to do it every day.

If you live in a place that's cold but sunny, grabbing five minutes of sunlight will help boost your levels of vitamin D, which may improve your mood, and increase the production of serotonin—one of our brain's feel-good neurotransmitters.

If dark and gloomy is all you see out the window, going outside and taking five minutes of deep breaths will fill your body with fresh air. Deep breathing reduces stress and calms the nervous system, lowers blood pressure, improves well-being in those with asthma, and allows oxygen to circulate throughout the body (including to our brain!).

For original post click here: http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-28553/im-a-nutritionist-heres-how-i-boost-my-happiness-when-its-cold-outside.html

#freshair #stress #fit #healthy