Exercise away those winter blues

To varying degrees, many people experience the winter blues. This seasonal mood swing is thought to be related to the lower levels of sunlight present during the colder winter months. In my many years of experience with clients, I have noticed a definite trend in a lack of desire to exercise and an increase in consumption of comfort foods during this season. I liken this phenomenon to a human version of going into hibernation.

Ironically, it is the very thing we want to avoid that will help lift our spirits and make us feel better _ regular exercise. You should participate in outdoor activities, especially on sunny days. For the less physically fit, starting gradually with smaller, enjoyable tasks and to do them faithfully until it becomes a habit.

A five to 10 minute brisk walk is a good start. don't just trudge along, cursing the cold. Walk briskly and with purpose, breathing in the fresh air deeply. Stretch your arms out, squat down then rise up on your toes a few times. Simple. You will be surprised at how energetic you feel afterwards.

Carve out some time each week to focus on physical fitness. Workout at least three times a week, 30 minutes to an hour. Find an exercise DVD, such as Get Fit 4 Christ, you can use at home or hire a Personal Trainer at MVP Fitness. Workout alone if you prefer or in a group by taking a class.