Do you feel depressed and low on energy during dark winter days? Most likely, what you have is not SAD (seasonal affective disorder), which is literally a medical condition similar to clinical depression. You likely have a milder condition: seasonal depression. And that’s good news because? Because it is easy to overcome with three simple steps:

1. Light, light, light! Use full spectrum bulbs in your home and at work whenever possible, then add a “happy light.” You cannot afford not to. How valuable is your good humor to you? You can read or make phone calls or do whatever you want near the light box or put it on your work desk. Also, once a month, try out the new UV-proof tanning beds. Not for tanning, just to get the light your body needs.

Have a mini–holidays and close your eyes every day for a minute next to your light box and imagine that you are in Hawaii or another sunny destination … you can find yourself there on a quick vacation! But in the meantime, you will feel better. Imagine yourself immersed in joy … that will help too!

2. Be active. You may think winter is for hibernating, but if you do, hibernate actively. I do Zumba at home by my sunny window and alternate with swimming in an indoor pool that gets plenty of light during the morning hours. Exercise is a magic pill that you have to win with sweat! Also, make sure you get enough sleep to have the energy you need to exercise.

Are you doing the type of exercise that you love?? If so, then you are motivated to exercise more. Do you love to exercise alone or in a group? Do you need others to push you or sweat with you? Do you need a class with a fixed schedule? If so, you know what to do … join one!

You do not have time? Imagine exercising and you will have time! Do this visualization when you wake up in the morning or simply fall asleep at night, and whenever you feel guilty about not exercising! People have really gotten toned just by imagining it, but you are likely to find yourself in the gym, walking around at lunchtime, or wherever / whenever you can do your best workout. The subconscious is a powerful tool to help you in your daily life. Keep speaking your language images!

3. Vitamin D-3 helps a lot – If you can’t get enough real sunlight, and even if you can, take D-3 in a form that is easy for your body to absorb and use. If you could only carry one supplement on a long trip, I have heard that vitamin D-3 is the one to take with you. Yes, even with vitamin C.