1. Get more SUN
OK, this may be hard especially if you are living up north, like us here in Chicago. But whenever you can, if the sun is out, try to take at least 10 minutes of catching some rays. Here is the catch, it is recommended that you get some sun with no sun block on. No you won't also catch some wrinkles, but the sun has vitamin D that definitely helps with the receptors in one's brain that works with your emotions. So overall, more vitamin D = happier you!
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| Photo courtesy of Vitamin D council |
2. Exercise, Exercise, Exercise!!!!
According to Reader's Digest, a recent study of 650 older adults showed beneficial effects of exercise treatment. Exercise gets the endorphins to kick in, raising your mood, and also helps you to feel better about your physical abilities. You not only feel more relived that you burned off that cheeseburger, but now you are feeling good; thus making you happier!! So get those gym shoes on and get on that treadmill! That makes for a great Valentine date, hey I'll join you!
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| Photo courtesy of topnews.com |
I understand it is impossible for many of us to get those recommended 8 hours of sleep, but getting at least 7 will help! Not sleeping enough will lead to fatigue which is linked to chronic failure AND depression. Researchers have found that getting enough sleep will fight and many times get the person over their depression. So use this as an excuse and jump into bed!
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| Photo courtesy of breakingmuscle.com |
4. Say HI!!! Interact with your loved ones
There is a reason why even the hermits that live in the mountains away from all civilization have a pet, they need some form of interaction. Even the loneliest person in the world has a pet or person to communicate with. We as humans (unless you are Martian) need people interaction and just being around or even calling a loved one on the phone will instantly cheer you up. So when you are down on Valentines, you can call your other Valentine hating bud and chat...and also maybe meet up for a drink!
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| Photo courtesy of pixgood.com |
5. Do what I do and Celebrate in Your Own Way!
I understand that for those of you that are single or even the attached ones that their other's hate Valentines and don't celebrate, this isn't a good day for you. So why not celebrate yourself. I don't mean book a reservation at a 5 star restaurant, but if you want to, who cares do it if it makes you happy! I personally eat a TON of chocolate, watch sappy romantic films and harass people on the phone; that always cheers me up! So grab that chocolate (totally proven to cheer anyone up) and grab a glass of wine and enjoy this day of love.....loving you.
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| Photo courtesy of rawstory.com |
But really if your blues lasts longer than just being Valentines day, please check out the signs of depression and tips on how to manage it below. All courtesy of Sycamore Springs Health.
Signs of depression
•Hopelessness
•Increased appetite and weight gain
•Increased sleep
•Less energy and impaired concentration
•Loss of interest in work or other activities including social withdrawal
•Unhappiness and irritability
Managing depression
•Get enough sleep
•Eat healthy foods
•Watch for signs your depression is worsening and have a plan if it gets worse
•Try to exercise more often and do activities that make you happy
•Seek professional help
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