Winter Blues

As we move into a season of dark mornings and long, dark nights the upcoming months can loom before us.

Here are 6 simple ways to increase your mood and help you have a great winter!

Remember, your mind will resist these – especially doing them consistently. It will tell you that such “simple things” won’t make a difference.

Keep one small promise to yourself for 30 days. Then add another small promise. Those that keep consistent, small, healthy practices such as these in their days see the life-changing difference.

1. Get outside. No matter how cold or windy it is, bundle yourself up and get outside every single day, even if it’s just for 5 or 10 minutes. Do you work during all the daylight hours? Find a local, well-lit park or neighborhood to walk around for a bit.
2. 20 minutes a day keeps the downs away! 20 minutes of exercise that is. Getting your blood flowing and increasing your heart rate is the very best way to boost your mood – some studies show it’s even more effective than antidepressants!
3. Embrace cozy blankets, good books, crackling fires, and your hands wrapped around a warm mug. Take this season as an invitation to slow down and savor those simple things in life.
4. Gather and laugh! It’s the perfect time of year to sit around a table with loved ones and play cards, dice, or a board game. Maybe you want to cozy up on the couch and watch your favorite comedy. A strong sense of community and laughing with others is one of the most powerful ways to boost your mood. Get out your planner and plan in-person connection.
5. Plan sunny vacations or simple staycations to look forward to. You don’t need a lot of money or have to book fancy vacations. Getting tickets to a concert, staying a night or two in a local hotel with a pool, or even visiting a local greenhouse and planning to eat at a fun restaurant afterwards are examples of cheaper getaways to look forward to.
6. It’s all about your mindset. Making small talk with others about how dreadful the weather is lately is only going to make things worse. Don’t underestimate the power of your thoughts. Instead, try telling them one thing you enjoy about winter such as when the trees glisten after a fresh snowfall, going sledding, or cuddling up in front of your fireplace. Spread positivity!