Living in cold climates can be difficult on your emotions and bring on the winter blues. Sub-zero temperatures. Wind chills below zero. Snow storms, ice storms, short days and long nights.
Any one of these can be trying and when put together they can seem overwhelming. In the middle of a long, cold winter, you may feel lethargic, your outlook can dim and you might put on a bit of weight. If you’ve ever lived in a cold climate, you know what I’m talking about.
To combat the blues when they show, here are five ways to kick your mood into high gear.
-
Pamper: if you don’t regularly pamper yourself, now is the time. If you regularly spend some time pampering, kick it up a notch or two. Pampering includes anything you do that’s just for you and that you really enjoy doing. It could be a hot bath, going to a movie, dinner out on the town, a new hairstyle, a mani/pedi, a massage or an entire spa day.
-
Exercise: not only does it tone your muscles and strengthen your heart, exercising also releases endorphins and lift your mood. It doesn’t really matter what kind of exercise you choose, just get up and do it.
-
Meditate: the health benefits of meditation are becoming more and more
-
Get outside: Bundle up and go for a brisk walk if the temperatures are safe. It doesn’t have to be long, just enough to give you some time outside. Even if you just go out your door for a few minutes and breathe in some fresh air, you’ll notice a difference. Fresh air is awesome any time of the year.
-
Sunbathe:When the suns comes out, find a spot where you can soak up some of its warming rays. A few minutes feeling the suns’ warmth can do wonders.
What’s your favorite way to deal with the winter blues? Share in the comments below.
Note: There is a psychological issue called Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD*, a kind of depression that usually happens during the winter months. This is a severe form of the winter blues and not something that can be addressed here.
*Symptoms of SAD:
-
Hopelessness
-
Increased appetite with weight gain (weight loss is more common with other forms of depression)
-
Increased sleep (too little sleep is more common with other forms of depression)
-
Less energy and ability to concentrate
-
Loss of interest in work or other activities
-
Sluggish movements
-
Social withdrawal
-
Unhappiness and irritability
If you think you’re winter blues might be severe, please see a mental health professional.
