Shorter days, colder temperatures and more time spent indoors can color anyone’s winter a shade of blue. Whether you’re feeling sluggish, irritable, noticing a change in appetite, or just feeling a little “off,” you’re not alone. Dr. Janet Taylor, clinical psychiatrist, emotional health expert and life coach, says winter is a time when many notice a change in sleep patterns, energy and mood. Fortunately, Taylor has tips to help boost your mood and banish those winter blues.

Get Moving

Exercising releases endorphins, which help you feel better. If you can’t exercise outdoors, working out in the fitness club or at home with DVDs and hand weights will give your mood and energy a boost. Another way to get moving is to tackle some of those indoor home improvement projects you’ve been meaning to get to. Cleaning out the closets, painting a room or rearranging some furniture will burn calories and make you feel you’ve accomplished something.

Eat for Energy

All those delicious comfort foods slow down your metabolism, drain your energy and pack on the pounds. Alcohol, sugar and high-fat foods are temporary mood-boosters, but they bring an energy crash that’s not worth it. Start off the day with whole grains and lean protein for longer-lasting energy. Drink plenty of water and enjoy lots of fruits and vegetables.

Supplement Smarts

In addition to exercise and healthy eating, consider a mood-enhancing supplement such as Nature Made SAM-e Complete. SAM-e (S-adenosyl-methionine) is a naturally occurring molecule in the body that can become depleted due to diet and age. Studies have shown that low levels of SAM-e can cause moodiness and irritability. Nature Made SAM-e Complete replenishes Sam-e levels and helps to naturally restore a good mood. It’s been clinically proven to work in as little as one to two weeks if taken daily as directed. To learn more, visit www.sam-e.com.

Don’t Go It Alone

Connecting with other people is one of the best ways to fight off the blues. Spend time with family members or share laughs with close friends. By combining meaningful face time with a brisk walk or a healthy meal, you’ll be amazed at how much better you feel.

– Courtesy of Family Features