1. How do you deal with cabin fever?
There are so many ways to deal with cabin fever. Cabin fever is a psychological
discomfort when staying in a place for too long. It is often associated with
depression’s symptoms such as sadness, weight fluctuation, restlessness, and
sleepiness. As someone with chronic depression, I can say that cabin fever does
not have to be in a cabin. On the contrary, cabin fever can take place in any
location where you are isolated.
One way to deal with cabin fever is to take up a sport or an exercise regimen.
http://freelancefolder.com’ s editor reflects, ’I’ve recently taken up running
and experienced exercising outside at near-freezing temperatures. With my nose
running and eyes tearing up, I totally get why nobody else is running with me.
But it’s still much better than staying indoors and working out to my DVDs.’
Furthermore, the writer adds, ’Granted, I probably wouldn’t run when there’s
snow. Some people do, but not me. Fortunately, there are other things you can do
outdoors in the snow. Take up a winter sport, build snowmen with your kids, and
make snow angels.’
It is all about attitude, then. You have to move outside. I personally like to
walk to get the mail, skip, run, dance. Yes, people stare, but life is too short
to worry about people’s opinions.
Living in California is a blessing, especially for those who worry about cabin
fever. ’The lack of exposure to sunlight causes a chemical imbalance in our
brains. This is what leads to cabin fever and, when severe, clinical depression.
The easiest way to make sure you still get plenty of sunshine is to open blinds
and curtains. Work beside a window.’
And if the sun is not around, what matters is that you move. Try to spend your
time moving your body in a positive manner. Do not sit for too long, lounge and
hunch over. Instead, ’We already talked above about engaging in activities
outdoors. However, even when you’re snowed in, it’s still a good idea to keep
active. Remove the clothes that are hanging on your treadmill and use the
machine the way it was intended to be used. If you have them, now’s the time to
use those exercise DVDs. Or set up a small home gym with weights, exercise
bands, and a stability ball. Avoid passive activities, such as watching TV or
surfing the ’net all day. In fact, I would recommend you spend no more time in
front of your computer than what’s necessary for you to complete your
freelancing work.’
And finally, remember to make your indoors reflect your inner positivity. ’Just
because it’s cold and dreary outside doesn’t mean it needs to be the same inside
your house. Put out your Christmas decorations and lights. Use bright colors on
curtains, pillows and other soft furnishings. Take out the most luxurious
beddings you have. While you’re at it, why not buy a diffuser to make your house
smell of lavender, peppermint and jasmine? These are just some of the essential
oils that are considered uplifting and help address depression.’