Mood boosters for the whole family



Wintertime is the best time to be mindful of mood

Be mindful of mood in winter


We have now been in the pandemic for almost two years. Even as health officials tell us that there’s light at the end of the tunnel, and a sense of normalcy should return by autumn, plowing through the Winters of Covid is proving challenging indeed. The enforced distancing, and the reduced opportunity to spend time outside, all combined with political and social upheaval, can make anybody in the family particularly gloomy. With those circumstances in mind, Kathi Kemper, MD has put together a helpful list of mood boosters in HealthyChildren.org.

Quite a few of the tips are common sense, like get outside, no matter what, for at least thirty minutes a day. Dr. Kemper emphasizes, “Bright lights, especially in the early morning, can also help.” I can easily back her up on this. I began getting outside more in April 2020, mainly as a means of lightening my mood, which I did, but additionally, I got to know much more about the land on which I’ve been living for eighteen years.

READ MORE: De-stress your kids: The benefits of nature play

Not surprisingly, Dr. Kemper emphasizes the importance of sleep. This may not be a news flash to anyone who’s endured a night of bad sleep – or no sleep – and suffered extreme grumpiness he next day, or who has been on the receiving end of said grumpiness, but nevertheless it’s good to hear. Dr. Kemper advises using the bed only for sleep, not watching TV or doing homework. A hot shower and a foot rub can help, too. Children should have routine bedtimes. The sense of predictability can ease one into good, deep, restorative sleep.

Protein-rich foods are important. According to Dr. Kemper: “Protein helps keep your blood sugar stable and gives your brain the fuel it needs.” She recommends foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like “fish (salmon, sardines, mackerel, herring); plants (flaxseeds, chia seeds, dark leafy vegetables, kidney beans, pinto beans, soybeans, walnuts, tofu); and certain oils (canola, soybean, walnut).” Also, no junk food, no matter how much you or the kids deserve a treat. The sugar and salt can spike blood sugar, and the resulting crash can bring bad moods.

Other tips: exercise, practice gratitude, and limit screen time for everyone, adults included: “Limit your family's exposure to TV and internet ads suggesting that buying things can make people happy. This will help limit messages about happiness that are false or unrealistic. It will also help you manage your family's exposure to upsetting news. Consider instead: reading, playing cards or board games with family members, working a puzzle as a family, playing music or singing together, making a video to share, cooking together, or taking a family walk or bike ride.”

Also, bear in mind we will get through this.



Other articles by HVP News Reporters


  • 5 garage safety tips

    Make sure everything is secure and functioning properly

    When you throw open the windows, you’ll likely be spending more time with the garage door open, too. Make access to your outdoor equipment safer with these tips to get your garage ready for the warmer months. read more »
  • 7 vegetables to grow easily in your home garden

    All you need is a little time and effort

    Growing fresh, healthy vegetables at home may not be as hard as it sounds. Novice gardeners just need good dirt, easy plants to grow, lots of sunshine and the right amount of water. read more »
  • 7 budget-friendly gardening hacks

    Tricks to help you create a cost-effective garden

    Gardening can be a simple way to beautify your yard, relieve stress and save money on your grocery bill, but like any hobby, you can get carried away buying necessary equipment. read more »
  • 2023 I Love My Parks Day Events

    Volunteer with your family to clean up a local state park

    I Love My Park Day is an annual event that brings together thousands of volunteers to enhance and celebrate New York's amazing parkland. read more »
  • Spinach and artichoke stuffed mushroom caps

    Simple, easy and delicious

    Bringing an element of elegance to your holiday celebration is easy when you start with party-pleasing ingredients, and great tasting food often starts with dairy. read more »
  • Parmesan crusted chicken

    Super easy to make

    Not only is this Parmesan Crusted Chicken dish delicious, it is super simple to make. read more »
  • 5 resilient flooring trends for spring remodeling season

    Spruce up your home this spring

    If the idea of a spring remodel brings equal parts intrigue and dread, starting with your flooring can make the process more appealing. For example, sustainable, resilient flooring comes in a variety of options to both your budget and personal style. read more »
  • Tips on navigating moving and storage scams

    New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection Releases Guide

    the New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection announced the release of a comprehensive guide that provides consumers with important tips to avoid moving and storage company scams. read more »
  • Top tips to win a college scholarship

    Creative ideas to help your student out

    More than half of American families used scholarships to pay for college last year. From merit-based to artistic-focused, there are a variety of awards available. read more »
  • Understanding maternal health and hypertension

    7 tips for a heart-healthy pregnancy

    A common misconception is high blood pressure (HBP), or hypertension, rarely affects women. However, nearly half of all adults with HBP are women. read more »