SAD isn’t just an emotion – it’s a type of depression related to the changing of the seasons, an acronym for Seasonal Affective Disorder. Those who have SAD might experience irritability, tiredness, loss of focus, difficulty sleeping and more.
Even without SAD, it’s easy to feel a little down in the winter. The lack of outside warmth, sunlight and outdoor exercise and activities contribute to a sluggish and gloomy mentality.
Fortunately, there are a variety of ways to keep your spirits up during the long, cold months ahead.
Healthy eating
It can be easy to fall into the habit of eating comfort food during winter. A healthy diet does wonders for overall mood and physical wellness by providing your body with long-lasting energy and essential vitamins and minerals.
Exercise
Don’t hibernate! Exercise is key to keeping your mood elevated in the winter. In addition, quitting any routines you established in the warmer months will decrease gains made during that time, such as strength, flexibility and endurance.
The Broad Art Museum offers Pilates and free Tai Chi, while Health4U hosts Active Stretching every Thursday at the IM Circle Dance Studio, starting January 21.
MSU employees can also purchase memberships or day passes to access the IM facilities on campus, which include pools and group exercise.
Some easy at-home exercises include yoga, weightlifting and simple push-ups or jumping jacks.
Outside winter activities
The cold doesn’t have to keep you away from outdoor exercise. Walking or running outside in the winter burns more calories while your body works to keep you warm. You can tour the MSU Horticulture Gardens and greenhouses for a change of scenery.
It’s not sunbathing weather, but winter offers its own fun activities. Soak up some vitamin D as you build a snowman, ski, sled, snowboard or go ice skating
Try something new
It’s never too late to pick up a new hobby. Trying a new activity can keep your mind active and give you something to look forward to. It could be as simple as starting a puzzle, or as ambitious as learning a new language.
The same reasoning applies to going out to a new event. There is a lot to experience this winter at MSU, including several excellent Wharton Center shows and new exhibits at the MSU Museum  and Broad Art Museum.
Additional Mental Wellness
If you are feeling stressed, you can also attend one of the many midday relaxation sessions at Abrams Planetarium.
If feel you need additional counseling or therapy, contact MSU’s Employee Assistance Program to set up an appointment.