January Volunteer Training Tip

Winter is in full force! As the nights get colder, even the best of us can get a little down. The "winter blues" are characterized by mild depression, lack of motivation, and low energy that many people experience during this cold season. Luckily, there’s a lot you can do to prevent the blues from getting you down.

5 Ways to Beat the Winter Blues: 

1.     Exercise

Exercise isn’t only for maintaining your weight and staying healthy. It’s great for relieving everyday stress. Exercise also helps your mind by releasing those ‘feel good chemicals’ endorphins that improve your mood.

2.     Eat a Healthy Diet

What you eat greatly affects your mood and energy. Try to incorporate more whole grains, veggies, and fruit. These healthy foods provide your mind and body with the nutrients it needs to stabilize your blood sugar and increase levels.

3.     Get Some Sun

Most people know that sunlight provides us with Vitamin D. Winter days are shorter and darker than other months, and because of the cold weather, a lot of people stay inside. Try to spend a little more time outdoors. Keep your shades up during the day to let more light in. Sit near windows to soak up the rays.

4.     Treat Yourself

Winter seems endless! But if you plan something exciting, your mood improves when you’re anticipating it and when the event actually comes. Plan something that’s exciting to you - a weekend trip, a day at the spa, or a special community event.

5.     Laugh a Little

Laughter boosts immunity and releases infection-fighting antibodies into the system. Laughter also expands blood vessels increasing blood flow to essential organs. Laughter releases endorphins too - the ‘feel good’ chemicals. Laughter therapy isn't complicated - just laugh away your blues and you'll be fine. J J J

New Seasons Volunteer:

Please welcome Volunteer Marilyn Goodall to Seasons! She will be volunteering at Seasons 1 on Thursday mornings from 9:30-11:30. Marilyn will be a Beauty Consultant providing manicures to our seniors and helping with cards, board games, and puzzles.

Thanks for all you do!

Emily Anderson

Activity Specialist

Seasons Adult Day Service

989-633-3764

eharwood@mccoa.org