Combating cabin fever is important during the stormy winter months. Even the most laid back phlegmatic people can get on each other’s nerves if they are cooped up together in a small area without outside social stimuli or contact with people. The importance of a change of scenery and people’s faces can be one of the key factors in dealing with stormy weather and isolation. The use of internet and satellite television can help alleviate the feelings of isolation and boredom but the best cure is contact with others.
For people who have SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) the effects of cabin fever combined with the oppressive clouds, lack of sunshine and snowy weather for days on end, the physical, emotional and mental stress can cause illness. There are a number of strategies to take when combating cabin fever and SAD, most of these include a change of diet, scenery or physical location. Citrus fruit like oranges, lemons, grapefruit and limes can help by stimulation the senses and lightening the depressing mood. The use of bright cheerful colors and aromatherapy can help also.
If you are currently suffering from cabin fever, it is time to try these methods or perhaps start a new hobby that will give your mind a new challenge instead of moping about the weather. Teas with fruity flavors like raspberry and the use of vitamin D will combat it best. The incorporation of activity like exercise and dancing will do wonders for the boredom and lethargy. It is a good idea for those parents with small children to let themselves have a time when the children are not around to relax and have time by yourself. That way when you do have time with the children, it will be beneficial to you both.
Some people are fortunate enough to take vacations during the winter months and go enjoy some sunshine and check out the beach in a tropical area. For the rest of us, we need to make do with the alternatives that will help us to combat the cold, freezing temperatures and dull gray skies. Write a poem, learn how to cook a new healthy dish, practice your disco dancing or yoga. Use your imagination and figure out fifty new ways to organize your closet or quilting fabric. The important part is to not stagnate and despair but to find joy in every day, holding those moments of laughter against the time when the gloom and darkness tries to descend into your life again. There is hope! Defeat cabin fever this year!