Tech to beat the winter blues
Takingupanewexerciseoutdoorsmostmorningsduringthewintermonthswillhelp
you get more of that essential sunshine needed to treat your SAD or winter bluesThoselivingwithSADandwinterbluesoftenlearntoadapttheir
lifestylewherepossibleduringthewinter,movinghigh-energy
projects to other times of the year. “Rather than resisting the
condition, it is better to acknowledge it, learn how it works and
make appropriate changes,” advises Helen Hanson. Exercise,
however, should be a constant.
Helencontinues:“Trytogetplentyofsleepandrelaxation,
eatahealthydietandspendasmuchtimeaspossibleoutsidein
naturaldaylightornearwindows.Youshouldalsotrytoinclude
exercise in your new lifestyle. It is one of the most effective ways
of alleviating depression.”
Running or bootcamp classes can have positive effects on
SAD and winter blues. According to Paul Smith, manager and
master trainer at the UK Outdoor Fitness Group, “If you suffer
from seasonal affective disorder, getting outside and exercising
will help to alleviate the symptoms by introducing more daylight
toyoursystemandbyinvolvingyouinactivitiesthatarefun.
“Staying cooped up indoors all winter isn’t beneficial for your
health... Getting out gives you a chance to breathe fresh air... and
gives you a sound mind and body workout.”
There are plenty of running groups in cities and towns across
Australiaofferinggreatsupportsoyoucanmeetwithothersand
getoutdoors.Arunninggrouporbootcampleadbyqualified
professionalscanofferplentyofadviceforagooddietandhow
toexercisesafelyoutsideduringwinter.Toget you started, here
are three essential tips for winter runners...WARM UP IN THE COLD
A good warm-up is important in winter.
Start slow with gentle running or walking.
Gradually increase your pace until, after
7-10 minutes, you reach the pace you’ll
maintain for most of the run. To stretch,
do walking lunges or high-knee skips.PROTECT YOUR SKIN
Before you go outside, make sure to apply
moisturiser on your skin to keep itching and
dryness away. Invest in a ski-mask or hoodie
to protect your neck, head and face from
bitter wind. Pull a hat over your ears if you
don’t have a ski mask.GET IN THE RIGHT GEAR
When running, wear shoes that have decent
traction so you can maintain grip on icy or
snowy surfaces. Trail-running shoes work very
well. If there’s too much snow, try lightweight
boots that bend with you but can also wick off
annoying snow and moisture.Break a sweat outdoors