For most of us winter is a lovely time, full of seasonal thrills (such as skating, skying, sledding and snow days), as well as chills. But for millions of others each year, the brightness and twinkle of a snowy morning is not enough to keep them from drifting into inactivity, lethargy, even dark thoughts. This is where the family feelings may play a major role.
It's no wonder. Winter is the darkest time of year and doctors know a lack of light can affect your mood. Every year, millions of family develop symptoms of the ''winter blues''. Symptoms include losing interest in activities, loss of energy, withdrawal from friends or work, and eating high-carb, high-fat ''comfort food'' with resulting weight gain. This helps o perpetuate a vicious cycle, with the weight gin adding to passivity, watching TV to excess, and lethargy.
Generally, the darker the day, the more important it is for you to get outside. Make sure you and your children are dressed comfortably and appropriately! It is the best period for cultivating the family feelings among members of your family. As example, everyone in the family can play a role in cleanup after a winter storm. Make it a group project and be sure the kids are coming in periodically to warm up and drink something warm.
During storms and times when it is too windy, icy or cold to go out, this is time for playing cards, electronic games or others similar social activities with members of your family. This will contribute to increase the family feelings.
As one can see, winter represent, for family, a nice opportunity to boost the family feelings.
