I’ve talked about my anxiety in multiple blog posts and on my social media before, and while I know it’s a constant struggle, I know many of us can feel the effects even more during the winter months. There’s something about being holed up in our houses, the cold, not having as many plans, etc that can make you feel isolated, sad, lonely, less motivated, or just blah. Now, I’m not a medical professional, so if you’re seriously struggling with this, I highly recommend reaching out for help. But if you’re like me and occasionally deal with a minor case of the winter blues, I’ve put together a few things that have helped me avoid them.
These things are basic AF but are things that are easy to forget when it’s cold and you’re on the couch basically binging Netflix for 3 days straight. No judgment, we’ve all been there, but try testing out a few of these things and see how much your mood will improve! Let’s get into it.
Get Outside (even if it’s cold)
Yeah, I know, the temptation to hibernate indoors is strong when it’s freezing outside. But trust me, a little fresh air can work wonders for your mood. Bundle up, brave the cold, and take a stroll around your neighborhood. This can help boost your mood and energy levels by exposing you to natural light and fresh air.
Sit in the Sun
With shorter days and less sunlight, it’s essential to soak up as much natural light as possible. Open the curtains wide during the day, position yourself near windows, and even consider investing in a light therapy lamp to brighten your space if there’s not much sun where you live. Sunlight plays a crucial role in regulating our mood and sleep patterns!
Stay Active
Regular exercise is a powerful antidote to the winter blues, so it’s super important to stay active. Nowadays, there are basically a million different at-home workouts you can do for free on Youtube, or subscribe to your favorite trainer’s workout program. Even 20 minutes of movement is better than nothing. Prioritize it, add it to your schedule, do what you need to do to get your body moving. As we all know, exercise releases endorphins (natural mood lifters) which will help you combat feelings of lethargy and sadness.
Embrace Hygge Vibes
Who says you can’t be cozy and content during the winter months? Embrace the Danish concept of hygge by creating a warm and inviting atmosphere at home. Light some candles, snuggle up with a soft blanket, and sip on your favorite hot beverage. Sounds pretty amazing to me!
Practice Self-Care
It is SO important to make self-care a priority during the winter months (and always, really). Set aside time for activities that help you relax and recharge, whether it’s reading a book, taking a warm bath, or practicing mindfulness meditation. This can help reduce stress and improve your overall mood which is always a win. Lately, I’ve been super into reading and have been enjoying curling up on the couch with a blanket and a book. It’s a little bit of me time that reduces my anxiety and helps me wind down.
Stay Social, Stay Sane
Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you have to go into social hibernation. Keep your social connections alive and kicking by scheduling FaceTime hangouts, phone calls, or outdoor meetups with friends and family.
Set Goals
Give yourself something to look forward to by setting goals and pursuing activities that motivate you. Whether it’s learning a new skill, tackling a home project, or setting professional milestones, having a goal can give you a little extra purpose and help you avoid that blah feeling we get during the winter months.
Reach Out for Help if You Need It
If you’re struggling to shake off the winter blues or finding it hard to cope, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Whether it’s talking to a friend, a family member, or a professional counselor, there’s no shame in asking for help when you need it.