Battling the Winter Blues in New York: Stay Happy and Sane
Winter is coming and with it comes something called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). As the days get shorter and the nights get longer, it's time to fight off those winter blues.
The team at MattressNextDay has got your back! They took a look at all the weather data and figured out just how much of a SAD hotspot our beloved state of New York is. New York ranked 2nd in SAD vulnerability, which means we're pretty high up there on the list.
With an average temperature of 48.1°F and 3.76 inches of rainfall, New York knows how to do winter right. But here's the kicker: We only get a mere 414 hours of sunlight! No wonder our SAD risk score is 68.14.
Steps To Conquering The Winter Blues
The good news is that MattressNextDay has some amazing tips to turn our frown upside down and help to get those winter blues like champs! Getting enough quality sleep is the key to kicking SAD to the curb.
It helps regulate our mood and keeps us feeling less stressed. So, make sleep a priority, create a relaxing bedtime routine, and let those Zzzs do their magic. It's amazing what a good night's sleep can do.
Light Therapy Can Help Get Rid Of The Winter Blues
Have you heard of "light therapy?" I hadn't either but it's a great way to beat SAD. Grab yourself a light therapy box, crank it up, and let it imitate sunlight. These devices are 10 times stronger than your regular lamps, so they'll remind you of those bright sunny days even when it's gloomy outside. I'm feeling better already.
Exercise is a natural mood booster and it works wonders during the winter months. Not only will it help you sleep better, but it'll also encourage you to get outside and enjoy our beautiful city. So, whether it's a jog in Central Park or dancing like crazy in your living room, just get your body moving!
Sure, winter brings on all those tempting sugary snacks and carb-loaded comfort foods, but don't forget to keep it balanced. A healthy and nutritious diet will give you that energy boost you need and elevate your mood. Have your festive treats, but don't forget to load up on fruits, veggies, and all the good stuff too!
LOOK: 50 cozy towns to visit this winter
Gallery Credit: Laura Ratliff