In winter the nights are longer and the days shorter, Seasonal Affective Disorder may affect many who otherwise do not show signs of depression. Lack of sunlight causes the disorder which can include lethargy, depression and disinterest in activities. We certainly can’t make the day longer or then night shorter, but then how to survive the winter blues? We can take action to counteract Seasonal Affective Disorder.
Many parts of the world experience cold climates during the winter. Gone are the days of spending time in the sun at the beach or next to the pool. The gardens no longer need tending and the grass needn’t be mowed. Less time spent outside leads to boredom and depression inside. Spring is for cleaning and summer and fall are spent outside. So, inside activities are required.
For families with children, this can be a daunting challenge. Though they can play in the snow for a few minutes, most of their time is spent inside. Small children get bored easily, so having several activities planned is a good idea. Baking cookies and helping with simple meals is fun for the little ones as well as an excellent teaching activity.Planning a play date will give the children someone to play with as well as some social interaction for Moms and Dads.
How to Survive the Winter Blues? Do Outside Activities with Family and Friends
Older children are a different kind of challenge. Tweens and teens will most likely ditch the cooking lessons and find the art project laughable. They would most likely prefer to play video games and watch TV. While this keeps them out of your hair, it isn’t necessarily what is best for them. Instead of having them assist with baking cookies, give them room in the kitchen to cook a meal of their choosing (with supervision, of course). Studies have proven that families thrive that sit down and share dinner at the dinner table.
When the meal is over, allow friends to come over and go retro by bringing out those classic board games. They are just as fun now as they were years ago. This provides social meaningful social interaction between friends and while curing boredom. Technical devices should all be turned off for these activities to truly make a difference in family life and to optimize winter activities.
The child-free family can also suffer the wintertime blahs. This is the perfect time to invite personal friends over for a drink and comradery. Card games and classic games can be a fun way to enjoy the evening and enjoy the company. Turning off the tech and competing in some games is competitive, but relaxing. Winter time activities can be fun and eventful without costing a fortune.
