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Set a Sleep Schedule A lot of people tend to sleep more during the winter, but more sleep doesn’t necessarily equal better sleep. In fact, sleeping too much can be a sign of poor sleep quality, and it has its own effects on mood. Meanwhile, the consequences of not getting enough sleep include irritability, reduced hormone production, and a likelihood of increased stress. Your kids probably have a set bedtime, but you should, too. For the best sleep possible, everyone should follow a simple but regular bedtime routine that includes winding down and dimming the lights. Consistently going to bed and waking up at the same time every day (yes, even on weekends!) will create better sleep, and morning exposure to light is critical to training your circadian rhythm. If these tips don’t work, it’s time to visit a doctor. If symptoms last for longer than two weeks, the “winter blues” can really be SAD. Treatments, including light therapy and medication, are available for all ages, and should be discussed with a professional. Whether you and your kids need professional care or just a little pick-me- up, winter is much too long to spend feeling sad. Despite the cold and the darkness, everyone can have an enjoyable season with a little help.
during the week. Make sure everyone in your family has a warm coat and boots before venturing outside for a walk or snowball fight.
Exercise Regularly Since most people spend more time indoors during the winter, they also tend to get less exercise. However, exercise can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, which is even more valuable when you’re feeling down. You can encourage your kids to get in some activity and also use their need for exercise as motivation to get your own.
Because of the sunlight exposure, engaging in activities outdoors is best. You could try ice skating, hockey, or hiking. (Shoveling snow is also great exercise, if you’re looking for an excuse to enlist your kids.) But plenty of indoor options exist too! Take your kids to a trampoline park or indoor basketball court or pool. Dance and martial arts are great activities to keep kids moving, and video games
that require movement can trick them (and you) into getting a workout without even realizing it.
SKILLS THAT ENRICH US
The Importance of Having a Hobby
Hobbies develop patience. When you take on a new hobby, you are tasked with learning something new. Whether you’re practicing a new instrument, learning a different language, or figuring out how to make jewelry, a learning curve is involved. Building new skills takes patience, a very important attribute for success. Finding a hobby that suits you may take some exploration and trial and error, but it is all in good fun! Make it your goal to try something new or learn a new skill each month until you find something that sticks. Once you do, you’re sure to find that hobbies are both enjoyable and enriching!
January is National Hobby Month, and since it falls at the beginning of the year, it’s the perfect time to try something new! Hobbies add variety to your life and ensure you aren’t just living to work, so to speak. The best way to find a hobby you enjoy is to be open to new things. Whether it’s gardening, reading, drawing, running, fishing, crafting, or even beekeeping, finding an activity you enjoy is important. Here’s why! Hobbies are stress relievers. Hobbies offer a healthy escape from your busy lifestyle by keeping you engaged in something you find pleasure in. Instead of just relaxing on the couch and turning off your mind for a bit (which is totally acceptable sometimes), hobbies allow you to remain mentally productive while winding down at the same time. Hobbies also provide eustress . Believe it or not, one type of stress is deemed beneficial: eustress. If you aren’t overly stressed and are feeling a little under-stimulated, a hobby can provide activity for both your mind and body to keep you feeling excited about life and ready to take on new challenges and adventures. Hobbies offer a social outlet. Some hobbies involve group activities, such as bowling, sports teams, book clubs, and even wine tasting. Connecting with others offers the social support humans depend on to lead a healthy and fruitful life. Who knows? Maybe you’ll find some great friends who share the same passions as you!
2 • www.lawyersreadytofight.com
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