It’s common to feel down when the temperatures start to dip, the sun’s around less, and the snow starts falling. It doesn’t have to happen. You can survive and thrive with these tips for brushing off the winter blues.
Stay Active
It may sound out of place. Often during the cold winter months, people want to curl up under covers, in front of the fire, and overall, hibernate. Unfortunately, you’re not a bear and hibernation isn’t an option.
The best way to beat the winter blues is to keep moving. Of course, that’s not to say you can’t spend some time cuddling with a good book or binge-watching your favourite TV shows. Instead, the key is moderation. Get in a great workout, take a shower, and jump under the covers for a few hours.
Get Outdoors
Yes, this may feel like the opposite of what you need. But natural light and fresh air are ideal for reducing winter blues. Natural sunlight boosts serotonin, which improves your mood. The rays are also great for your skin, even if it’s not as close this time of year, and it can energize you.
Hormone expert, Anna Cabeca, DO, explains,
“When your eyes detect light, that tells your brain to wake up and release the cortisol [that] you need to increase your metabolism and get through your day.”
Watch What You Eat
While it’s okay to indulge from time to time on sweets and salty snack foods, this should be the exception, rather than the norm. The foods you eat have a direct connection to how you feel. Fresh fruits and vegetables, whole-grains, and plenty of water in your diet can naturally boost your energy levels and mood.
Also, a nutritious and well-balanced diet can reduce the winter blues weight gain. Stay active, get outdoors, and watch your meals snacks. Follow these suggestions, and you’ll be ready for spring and summer weather while many are actively working to lose their winter weight.
Pamper Yourself
Of course, it doesn’t have to be all healthy foods, outdoor activities, and gruelling workouts. Everything in life requires balance. As the saying goes, all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. Take the time to pamper yourself regularly.
- Take a hot bath
- Get a massage
- Go for a relaxing walk (Slow-paced to enjoy the sites)
- Schedule a mental health day with a friend
- Read a book
- Listen to comforting music
These tips will help you survive the cold weather and reduce stress, so you’re happier, healthier, and more productive. Don’t choose one, schedule many throughout your week. Although a full-day of relaxing activities sounds excellent, it might not be possible. Schedule an hour to read a few chapters between classes. Go for a stroll on your lunch break. Meet a friend for an early morning breakfast.
With these few tips for fighting the winter blues, you can enjoy the next few months and make the best of the cold weather outside. Before you know it, flowers will be blooming, birds chirping, and temperatures heading upwards to more pleasant daily highs.