Laura talks exercise and SAD in the February issue of Women's Fitness

3 ways to… shine through SAD - Banish the winter blues with some simple lifestyle changes!

Seasonal Affective Disorder is a depressive condition triggered by a lack of sunlight. For sufferers, high energy levels and good spirits quickly turn into exhaustion and melancholy as a debilitating depression settles over their world. But fortunately there is hope for sufferers, as Women's Fitness discovers…

Exercise
Laura Williams, personal trainer and diet and fitness expert
What? Exercise causes the brain to release our feel-good hormones, endorphins, about 15-20 minutes into a workout, peaking after about 45 minutes. Being regularly active can also help with any eating issues SAD sufferers may have by helping to manage the appetite.

The treatment? Aerobic exercise is probably the best form of fitness to help relieve symptoms. If you're new to exercise, brisk walking is good; otherwise, jogging and cycling will do more for your fitness levels and your waistline. Exercise taken outdoors during daylight hours is effective, as it's the combination of light and exercise that's crucial if you're suffering from SAD. Consistency is key in order to reap the long-term benefits, so keep it up! The benefits: It's thought that a person needs to be exercising for at least 30 minutes in order for the body to be sufficiently stimulated to release enough endorphins. You should aim for this at least every other day. Essential advice: Motivating yourself to exercise during the blustery winter months can be difficult. Make a plan, put it in the diary and stick to it, regardless of how you feel on the day. The post-workout feeling will make it all worthwhile. Find more tips from Laura at www.laurawilliamsonline.co.uk

To book a session or to find out how Laura can help you get into shape, email her at laura@laurawilliamsonline.co.uk

Or call her on 07712 001525.