10 Ways to Beat the Winter Blues

I know I’m coming in hot with all things “dreary”…but for some, this time of year can be a challenge. Between the snow, lack of sun, it being so cold outside… it can be near impossible not to feel in some kind of a funk or simply feeling blue. And that’s normal for this time of year. Despite the fact I’ve lived in a rather sunny statefor the past two years, the rest of my life I have experienced some sort of funk around this time of year. January – March especially, is a rather challenging period for me, personally. And while it’s never gotten “bad” per say, it still sucks, to say the least. The winter blues are the worst, and can be a tough thing to kick. Today I’m sharing with you 10 easy ways to beat the winter blues.

10 Ways to Beat the Winter Blues

• Move Your Body – While it can be tough to find your fitness motivation during the coldest months of the year, exercise is an incredible pick me up. What I have found that really works, is to prepare yourself the night before. Lay out your gym clothes, pack your gym bag and put it by your front door, and schedule the time out of your day to hit the gym. I find actually going to the gym is a much easier thing to do when you’re already prepared and prepped to do so. If you have a spouse, encourage them to do the same, and ask them to push you to stick to your plans. Or use the buddy system, take a friend, coworker, spouse or sign up for a specialty class to help you stick to a routine.
• Prioritize socializing – Winter can be a tough time to get out and about, so make it a priority to create plans weekly. Schedule yourself something you can look forward to each and every week. Even if it’s a quick coffee date before your busy day begins, make sure you allow yourself time to decompress, and connect with someone near and dear to you. There are so many activities you can do in the winter to fight off loneliness and blues, so it’s crucial to make the time to take care of yourself. Gather up your best friends and make an effort to hit the town, even if it’s for hot chocolate. Taking the time out to socialize with others is a good way to keep your spirits up this time of year.
• Take Vitamin D – It seems like a no brainer, but Vitamin D is like a wonder vitamin. It can come from sunlight, as well as different types of food. If you live in a state without a lot of sunlight in the winter, the North especially, you may want to invest in a Vitamin D supplement. I take a Vitamin D gummie each morning, and it’s as simple as that. It’s one of those things that’s been worked into my morning routine, and takes two seconds to take each morning. Make sure you are investing in quality gummies, or supplements by asking a pharmacist when you are choosing what will go into your body each and everyday.
• Laugh  – Sounds pretty easy, right? because it is! Winter can be such a drag, especially after the holidays have passed us by. The best medicine is always laughter, and can be such an easy thing to do. Find a funny show on Netflix, or even watch a comedy show. Research on local events near you and go out to a comedy club nearby. Spend time with your friends, and prioritize what truly makes you happy.
• Visit a Spa  – One of the easiest ways to get through the blues, is to practice self care. This time of year, spas are typically much cheaper, and you can find great deals on a day package (Groupon is amazing!) Visit a spa that has a hot tub, or even a sauna with light therapy, to rejuvenate and give yourself some much needed TLC. You can’t go wrong with a visit to a warm spa during the cold winter months.

• Rest Up – I’m not saying you need to hibernate, or spend all day in bed, but it’s crucial to get the recommended amount of sleep each night. Winter is not the time to feel run down and exhausted. You need energy to be able to perform and just simply move your body. Winter time is chock full of colds, the flu, and sickness floating around, so it’s that much more important you’re staying healthy this time of year. Use a sleeping mask, or lavender essential oils, whatever it is you need to do, make sure you’re prioritizing getting enough sleep each night.
• Seek help if need be – Know when it’s time to seek help, if need be. Sometimes seasonal depression can creep up on us when we least expect it. If the winter blues are truly dragging you down, and you feel like you just can’t shake them, know your resources. Reach out to your doctor, ask for recommendations for counselors, talk with your health insurance company and see what your options are. If you’re unable to do so, look up free support groups near you. There are so many free resources available near you, and it’s to so important that you know you are never alone.
• Lighting is Everything – Make it a habit when you first wake, to open all the blinds. Let the natural light in, and you’ll be shocked to realize it truly does make a difference. And while it’s cold outside, letting the natural light in will help to feel more awake each day. Or, if you live somewhere where the winters are long and tough, invest in a heat lamp to sit near for at least ten minutes a day.
• Eat Healthy Foods – Winter can wreck havoc on diets and fitness routines. In the colder months of the year, it’s normal to crave fatty foods, high-carb meals, and after awhile it can become a vicious cycle. When you eat high fat foods, it can lead to low energy, and no motivation to really move. When you’re feeling down in the winter time, it’s tempting to give in, and “treat” yourself to sweets. Your body needs just the opposite this time of year. It needs healthy, whole foods, in order to keep your energy levels up. If you’re feeling down, opt to eat colorful foods, add in some protein and you’re good to go.
• Rearrange your Space – Since it’s winter, you’re going to spending quite a bit of your time in doors. During this time of year, it’s especially important to have your space in order. Designate certain days out of the week to go through and declutter each and every room in your home. If you’re feeling crammed, rearrange furniture, and throw out anything that is taking up space. Clutter can seriously disrupt your mental state, as well as ability to focus. Since you’re going to be spending much more of your time indoors, make sure you love the space you live in.

Do you get the winter blues or seasonal depression? How do you cope? Share with me in the comments below!