5 Simple Ways to Boost Your Mood As the Days Get Shorter

As much as we enjoy the extra hour of sleep brought on by Daylight Savings ending, it's quickly followed by an “ugh” when you see the sun go down at 4:30 pm. When reality sets in, don't use it as an excuse to catch up on all things Netflix, over indulge in take out and comfort foods or make holiday shopping the only activity you do until the New Year. Instead, follow these tips and there will be no reason to feel blue this season.

Omega-3's are good for your brain, but the reality is more than 95% of us don't get enough each day.  Studies show that in those with mood disorders, fish and fish oil may enhance the release of the hormone serotonin which is known to regulate our mood. Take advantage of this natural mood lifter and make this one part of your day you don’t skimp on. Not a fan of fish? Get all the benefits you want with OmegaRx2.

Baggier clothing may allow us to sneak in a few extra guilty pleasures without anyone knowing, but these can impact your mood making you feel tired and lethargic once the sugar shock is through. While Peppermint Mochas, Hot Chocolate and seasonal treats are tempting, keep energy levels at their peak by making sure to keep indulgences to a minimum and good fats, lean protein and healthy carbs at the forefront of each meal. No time for meal prep? ZoneRx shakes and ZoneRx bars are easy and convenient and eliminate the need to think. Plus if you find your diet lacking in fruits and veggies these are a great way to get your polyphenols in too. Need more suggestions? Here are 6 Ways to Tame Your Sweet Tooth.This is the time of year where we put on our superhero capes and try to figure out how to cram as much as possible into the least amount of time.  Keeping a consistent workout routine can minimize this stress and also boost the levels of serotonin and dopamine. This will make you better able to adapt to day in and day out challenges while keeping your spirits high. Have you ever been the only one at the gym? Probably not. Half the battle is getting there, and once there, you’re in good company.It’s well known that light impacts our mood, so with the decreased daylight, you need to maximize the sunlight you do have. Wake up to the sun by opening your blinds and shades before you go to sleep, turn on more lights in the rooms you’re in, and take your lunch break outdoors with a brisk walk or by using that time to run errands. This may be the silver lining on having to leave for work in the dark only to return home in it too.You know that friend who makes you laugh until you cry? Plan some date nights with them this season. Just as much as diet, exercise, and sunlight can brighten our mood so can those around us. Make a date and stick with it, get to book club this month, or invite people to your place for movie night or dinner. Being around positive people who make you laugh is a fun and easy way to boost your mood.

Follow these simple tips and before you know it, we’ll be gaining daylight instead of losing it!