The “Winter Blues” is in fact a “thing.” During this time of year, the weather keeps us from doing some of the outdoor activities that make us smile and keep our endorphins high. So, when the “Winter Blues” have you down, what should you do? Here are 10 ideas to keep you from feeling blue during this gloomy season!
- EXERCISE. Get moving! This has and will continue to be one of the BEST choices to keep not only your energy high, but when you spend at least 30 minutes a day moving, getting your heart rate up, your body releases those “feel good” vibes!
- VOLUNTEER. Time is precious and giving YOUR time specifically to others will result in a feeling of accomplishment, as well as YOU truly will make a difference!
- FAMILY AND FRIEND TIME. Life gets busy, especially when the weather is sunny and warm. We seem to find MORE activities to keep us occupied and so, during this gloomy season when time seems to creep by, take the time and make it meaningful by spending it with a family member or friend. This can also be as simple as making that phone call and catching up if distance or traveling is an issue.
- CLEAN. Cleaning is or should be a weekly task, however, deep cleaning or cleaning out a closet or even organizing household items for example, are tasks that are time consuming, and often they are pushed back. The gloomy season is the perfect time, where you are stuck inside, to get this extra cleaning done. Cleaning also gives you a sense of achievement and satisfaction. Furthermore, cleaning can also be a great way to MOVE and get that exercise! So crank your favorite jams and before you know it, your house is spic and span!
- PROJECTS. This can be a variety of things. From arts and crafts, to organizing, to completing that “to do” item that you keep putting off.
- COOK/BAKE. Enough said, cook your favorite meal and invite your family or a friend to enjoy it with you. Bake cookies for someone OR just bake because you enjoy it. Not only will baking for someone make them feel good and give them something yummy to eat, but it will also bring those feel good vibes up for doing something for someone else!
- ADD COLOR/SMELL. Brighten up your space and/or add a diffuser to your room. Just by adding some color or pictures for you to see, this will enhance your mood. What you surround yourself by has an effect on how you think and feel!
- PET THERAPY. This also would be a great way to volunteer! Numerous studies show that pets relieve stress and increase happy vibes. So get that puppy you have always wanted, or go volunteer at the horse stables and feel your energy spike!
- NUTRITION. Drink more water and eat less sugar! You feel like what you eat. ENOUGH said.
- RELAX. Not too often do we get the time to just sit back and enjoy the downtime. So, while the weather has us cooped up indoors, grab that book you’ve been wanting to read, watch the T.V. series you need to catch up on, or just watch a movie. Take the YOU time that is needed and catch up on rest while you can!