Still got the blues?

Well it's a wet old morning here at chez "all about the feet" and I'm longing for some sunshine. Doesn't the Winter seem to last forever sometimes? Today I want to share with you some of my ideas and thoughts for combating those winter blues.

Exercise: I walk every day, even if it's just to the local shop. I strongly advocate walking as often as possible (if you are physically able). Get the blood moving and get some daylight on board - it might not seem like there's much daylight around some days but it's going to be more than you get indoors. Try to vary your trips so you don't get bored with the repetition. Maybe a friend can join you? Get those feet moving.
I also can not speak highly enough of the benefits of practicing yoga as often as possible. I’m a big fan. http://yoga.org.nz/ is a really great site for learning more and even has a free hour long down loadable DVD-thanks guys!

Good Food: Feeling good through a well balanced diet sounds like a nice way of living to me. I also think it is important for your mental health to have a little bit of what you fancy when you think you need it. Each person needs different foods to support their body and mind. If you torture yourself with extreme diets the chances are it won’t last and you’ll revolt against it at some point (that is of course unless you have absolutely zero choice). I like to eat the veggies that are in season. ThinkVegetables has a great deal of information and advice to help. Make sure you’re getting the right range of vitamins. There is a great section on the Think Vegetables website where you can find which vegetable contains which vitamin. If you can afford it, ordering an organic veg box each week gives you in season veg and a variety so you can try new recipes each week – it makes getting the dinner more interesting and expands your repertoire!
Lets also not forget the medicinal powers of a good curry!

Laughter: When was the last time you laughed really hard? As well as lowering blood pressure, laughter increases oxygen in the blood, which also encourages healing, Discover Health 2004.
A good laugh can help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, elevate mood, boost immune system, improve brain functioning, protect the heart, connect you to others, foster instant relaxation and most of all, make you feel good. For more information see www.helpguide.org.
I don't think you'll appreciate any of my jokes, (they're pretty awful) so here is a link to the Good Clean Funnies List.

Relaxation: I love a steaming hot bath full of all whatever “nice smellies” are to hand kicking off my going to bed routine. Depending on your mood, try A world of aromatherapy for a list of oils that can help. Lights low, candles-yes please! Mobile phone off. Land line? Not answering it. No more talking on the phone to anyone before going to bed. I pop my ipod on and drift away to wherever. Bliss!

Music: When I get the blues, I play my bongos! I also play my guitar-basically anything I can make noise with and let it all out. Beware though-this can be stressful for partners and neighbours.

And last but not least Reflexology. Reflexology is trying to help the body to naturally maintain its balance and aims to bring about greater unity of mind, body and spirit, as well as being an excellent form of relaxation. Make sure you find a qualified reflexologist, there are varying levels of competence out there. If you are in the UK try the Association of Reflexologists.

If you have any questions or more ideas on how to relax and enjoy these winter months, please feel free to leave comments.