Overcoming the Winter Blues

We’re deep into winter over here, and sometimes that brings on the winter blues, low mood that’s caused (or exacerbated) by the shorter days and longer nights.

But, we can alleviate the sadness and sluggishness that dark days might bring! Here are some ideas of overcoming the winter blues.

• Plan something to look forward to. One way to make it through dark days is to have a thing that you are looking forward to! As a January baby, at this time of year it’s often my birthday, but I’ve also planned a personal retreat where I get a hotel room and chill out for an evening. Or it could be a new recipe or new restaurant that you try once per week, or every two weeks. Pick something during the winter that you are anticipating.

• Bundle up and get outside when it’s sunny. I know it might be crazy cold, but go out when it’s bright and let your brain remember what sunshine is. It doesn’t have to be all day, so put on your sunscreen and your big coat and go walk outside for twenty minutes.

• Make a cozy space in your home. Create your blanket nest or reading nook where you huddle up with a cup of tea or coffee or hot chocolate and read, or watch tv, or listen to music/podcasts, etc. Make it smell nice. Put a cute lamp over there.

• Get your heart rate moving. If you’re a person whose mood is lifted by working out, then do that! Even if you’re not, getting some kind of workout done in the winter can work wonders for your mental health.

• Spend quality time with loved ones. Invite a friend over. Video chat with your besties. Have brunch with the homies. Make sure you reach out to spend time with others, even when all you want to do is stay home and hide under the covers.