"But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.
I will sing the Lord's praise, for he has been good to me."
—Psalm 13:5-6, NIV
The gray days of winter can dampen our spirits, especially when we fail to maintain a healthy focus.
Our North Carolina winters are mild. There are seldom days when people are housebound
due to inclement weather. Personally, I’m a homebody and can stay secluded in
my home for a week and never develop cabin fever. Thankfully for me staying in is still a choice. I might respond differently if
circumstances such as illness, tragedy, or personal loss dictated my actions.
People who
suffer from depression in the winter months, a condition known as SAD (seasonal
affective disorder), can experience anxiety, fatigue, and weight gain. Though
the causes, symptoms, and severity of SAD may vary, researchers agree that those who
suffer have one thing in common—an acute sensitivity to the lack of light.
Although there are other ways to lessen the effects of SAD, I’ve listed a few below to aid in
your return to happiness.
o
Go outside
as much as possible. Sunlight generates the production of Vitamin D, the
body’s natural antidepressant. If physical circumstances limit your ability to
go outdoors, sit by a window as much as possible or invest in a sun lamp
equipped with special fluorescent tubes that mimic the sun’s beneficial rays.
o
Exercise.
Yes, it's that dreaded eight letter word, but regular exercise is a natural and healthy way to counter feelings of
depression. Vigorous exercise releases a hormone called endorphins which
elevate your mood and make you feel happy.
o
Avoid
coffee. Caffeine can cause you to feel stressed and anxious. Green tea, a
natural antidepressant, is a healthy alternative. Loaded with antioxidants and
nutrients, it improves brain function, fat loss, and potentially lowers the
risk of cancer, Type II Diabetes, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Drinking
a cup of green tea an hour or so before bedtime will serve as a
wholesome sleep aide and relax you.
o
Eat
plenty of fruit and fiber. Fruit is also a natural antidepressant. Whole
grains, brown rice, oatmeal, sweet potatoes, and whole wheat pasta are all good
choices as they aid in the release of serotonin, a brain chemical that
plays a significant role in mood, anxiety, and happiness.
And lastly...
o
Sing.
Yes, I said—sing. A 2013 article in Time magazine stated that singing has been
scientifically proven to lower stress and reduce anxiety. When we sing our
brain releases endorphins and oxytocin, both hormones found to relieve
depression. The additional good news is...you don’t have to be a good
singer to reap the healthy benefits of singing.
Scripture
substantiates the fact that singing is an excellent antidote for depression. In
Psalm 42:5, David is in a mental and emotional battle to rise above his negative
emotions.
“Why are you down in the dumps, dear soul? Why are you crying the
blues? Fix my eyes on God—soon I’ll be praising again. He puts a smile on my
face. He’s my God” (MSG).
David spoke to his soul, reminded himself of his hope
in God and returned to praising him.
I have a dear friend
who has a unique way of measuring her level of despondency. Though times in her
life may be tough, I often hear her say, “But the little bird in my heart
is still singing.”
Is the little
bird in your heart singing today? If not, help it out. Make a joyful noise
unto the Lord and watch your spirits soar.
Now it's your turn. What is one way you counter the winter blues?
I always welcome your comments.
Praising Him,
Starr
