Even though we haven't had much of a winter this year, many are still feeling the effects of the cold weather, cabin fever, and dreary skies. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a condition that affects many people in varying degrees, especially those in areas with long, cold winters. Symptoms include depression, excessive eating, increased fatigue, decreased physical activity, and decreased ability to think clearly. For some, this can be a serious problem and a cause for great amounts of stress. Here are a few tips to help avoid Seasonal Affective Disorder.
1. Light Therapy: Getting as much natural light is important in stemming the onset of SAD. Depending on severity, this can simply mean opening windows more often to let in sunlight or using brighter, more natural light bulbs. In more extreme cases, some opt for Light Therapy, which involves sitting in front of a light box which simulates a full spectrum of natural light.
2. Stay Active: Staying active and exercising is another important remedy for the winder blues. This can mean starting a workout regime or just going for a walk outside in the sun. Exercise leads to an increase in energy and releases dopamine, which regulates mood and can leave you feeling better throughout winter.
3. Socialize: Surrounding yourself with friends and loved ones is a great way to keep from laying around in your home all winter. Find people who will get you out outside, keep you active and entertained. This will not only keep your body up and moving, but you'll stay mentally active and alert.
Seasonal Affective Disorder can be a serious condition, and those who find themselves really suffering should consult a doctor. Most however will will be able to avoid the winter blues with these simple steps.
The Broadway musical Wicked has flown back into town, thrilling fans at the Overture Center now through June 9th.
I got a chance to see the production for the 2nd time last night, and once again was blown away. Even though I saw Wicked in 2010, I had...
Today we traveled back to 1975 for a Rendezvous with The Hudson Brothers. This song didn't make it to high on the charts, but Kitty enjoyed it. Her favorite brother was Brett. She also loved their television show. We've included a skit from...
I'm not sure why Pete Yorn decided to name his new music project after a European cave dwelling aquatic salamander, but if he stops by to play us some songs in Studio M, we'll have to ask him.
The Olms is a collaboration between Pete Yorn and...
Today's song was written by Peter Yarrow of Peter, Paul and Mary. It was inspired by the 1957 novel Doctor Zhivago. No one was inspired by the song this morning. It was rejected by almost all the listeners.
Today is World Goth Day, a day to celebrate the post-punk, anti-establishment, dark clothes-wearing subculture.
I'm pretty sure I was a Goth for at least for little while, for two reasons.
1) I almost hardly ever wear pastels.
2) I used to...
Hello to all from Nfusion. Another round of challenges has moved beyond us all. Congrats to those of us lucky enough to have survived to this point. Sad to see the others eliminated as they were all very creative and talented. Good Bye to our new friends...
This morning it seemed like just about everyone was in the mood for some Funky Cold Medina...except Kitty. This ridiculous song made it all the way to number 3 in 1989. Jonathan says any song that references advertising dogs from the 80's has got...
Madison's summer music festival season kicks off this weekend with Brat Fest at Willow Island, where there are more bands than you can shake a bratwurst at! Check out the Brat Fest website to plan your itinerary.
Next up is the Marquette...