Winter if finally here, and anybody who lives in a climate that produces winter-like settings, knows that the colder temperatures, increased illness, and shorter days can really take a toll on a person. All of this can sometimes lead to feeling tired, worn out, stressed, and sometimes, even depressed. Here are a few ideas to help fight off the winter blues.
1. Exercise
I know it’s hard to get yourself motivated to go to the gym when you are not feeling the best emotionally, but for me, it is crucial. Once I force myself to do it, I always feel so much better. A workout not only gets your blood pumping (which increases energy), but exercising also releases chemicals in your brain that make you feel happier.
2. Keep a balanced Diet
When you eat well, you feel good, so make sure that you are getting lots of healthy foods in your body. It is important to consume foods that increase your energy, instead of leaving you feeling sluggish. Watch what you are putting into your body, and make sure you are taking a multi-vitamin to get those extra nutrients that you aren’t getting from your food. A big one throughout the winter is Vitamins D. Chances are (depending on where you live), you are not getting ample Vitamin D through exposure to the sun, so make sure you are getting it somehow.
3. Find a hobby
Winter is the perfect time to find something that makes you happy and that you enjoy doing. Join a class that you’ve always wanted to try, such as pottery, dance, crochet, or painting. Not only does this help you meet new people with the same interest(s), it helps get you out of the house and exploring new things.
4. Get out
It is so easy to stay huddled inside during the winter months, especially with it being cold. Not to mention, when it gets dark by 5 pm., it can really zap your initiative. Don’t let it keep you from socializing. Make it a point to get out, see friends, participate in activities, and still stay social.
5. Go on a winter vacation
This will not only give you something to look forward to, but it will shorten your winter and help break it up. Take a trip somewhere warm and exciting if you can. Even better, pick somewhere you have never been. Taking vacations can help you feel relaxed, give you a new perspective, and give you a more positive outlook.
6. Make a change
Switch things up! Change your hairstyle, wardrobe, paint your bedroom, or re-organize/re-decorate the house. Switching things up can make everyday things or environments feel more exciting and new.
Photo Credit: Emilee Johnson