Experiencing feelings of sadness and depression is more common in the winter months, as we see less bright and sunny days. Fending off seasonal depression is not something to take lightly. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to fight the winter blues in your everyday life to keep the positivity flowing.
Find a Fun Activity
Getting motivated to visit the local gym isn’t always the easiest task. Especially when you don’t want to get out from under your comfortable blanket to hit the treadmill. However, a little exercise is a necessity for a healthy mindset. Try a few of these exercise options that also include a bit of healthy socializing to boost your mood:
- Yoga
- Dance classes
- Spin classes
- Boxing
- Aerobics
Take a Hike
While spending lots of time outdoors in the winter gets chilly, your body still needs sun exposure to combat the winter blues. Try taking a short walk on your lunch break or after work to get some time in the sun.
Plan Things To Do
Don’t spend the entire winter season binge-watching Netflix. Make plans for a night out or even a trip to one of the winter-friendly places to visit in the US. Of course, this year, you’ll need to take extra safety precautions in public spaces, but even a night on a Zoom call with friends can benefit your mental health.
Find Reasons To Laugh
Laughter is the best medicine, especially when it comes to seasonal blues. It naturally produces serotonin and endorphins that raise your mood and decrease stress. Next time you’re in a rut, throw on your favorite comedy or the latest episode of Saturday Night Live.
Watch What You Eat
Winter is a time of warm stews and comfort foods, but those foods often contain heavy starches that make us feel lethargic. Aim for healthy choices with plenty of vitamin B, as it aids in serotonin production.
Changing little habits in our lives can make a big difference in our moods, especially during the winter. Use these five ways to fight the winter blues and keep yourself feeling happy and healthy through the cold months.
