Expert gave advice on how to keep your sanity in winter

Winter can be a serious test for mental health. Short days, cold weather and lack of sunlight often cause a decrease in mood, increased fatigue and can provoke depressive states, said Andrei Isaev, founder of the DNCOM Lab. He told "Izvestia" on February 11 that there are many ways to help maintain mental balance and cope with stress during this period.

The expert recommended devoting time to physical activity. It not only keeps the body in shape, but also stimulates the production of endorphins - the hormones of happiness. Even a short walk in the fresh air can improve your mood. If the weather does not allow you to go outside, you should do home workouts or yoga.

The next step is proper nutrition. It plays a crucial role in maintaining mental health. Especially in winter, you should include foods rich in vitamins and minerals such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D and magnesium in your diet. These substances help to maintain a good mood and reduce stress levels.

"Also pay attention to the lighting in your home or apartment. A lack of natural light can negatively affect your mood. Make the most of daylight: open the curtains in the morning, try to spend more time by the window. If necessary, buy a lamp for light therapy, which imitates sunlight and helps to fight moping" - advised Isaev.

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He also emphasized that one should not forget to communicate with loved ones. Social isolation during the cold season can increase feelings of loneliness and anxiety. He recommended regularly communicating with friends and family by arranging face-to-face meetings or video calls. Emotional support is essential during winter.

You should also make time for rest and relaxation. Meditation, breathing exercises, reading books or listening to music can help relieve stress and improve your overall well-being. It is worth allocating at least a few minutes every day for such activities.

At the same time, it is necessary to plan pleasant activities. The expert noted that it is easy to sink into routine in winter, forgetting about the joys of life. He advised to plan trips to the movies, museums, exhibitions, skiing or skating. New impressions and active rest will help to distract from everyday worries and lift your mood.

If a person experiences a loss of interest in usual activities in winter, it may be a sign of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), Isaev explained. Other manifestations of this condition include: feeling depressed or sad; fatigue and decreased energy; sleep problems (both insomnia and excessive sleepiness); changes in appetite and weight; and difficulty concentrating.

The expert added that seasonal affective disorder requires careful attention and professional help from specialists. Therefore, if a person experiences such symptoms, he should see a doctor and take tests.

Earlier, on February 4, Eshkin Muradov, an endocrinologist and leading specialist of the Semeynaya clinic chain, told Izvestia that chronic stress affects eating behavior: in stressful situations, there is a desire to consume high-calorie foods. This can lead to an increase in body weight and, as a consequence, to obesity.