Ten Ways to Combat the Winter Blues

I’ve seen more than a couple people on social media lately talking about having the winter blues. With December in full swing, we think everyone is full of good cheer, but that may not always be the case.

I grew up in Michigan, so I’m no stranger to long, endless winter days with limited sunshine. I’m also familiar with how much that lack of sun can affect our moods. Thankfully, moving to North Carolina eight years ago gave me better and shorter winters. But we still have plenty of days that are cold and yucky. We still leave work at 5:01 when it’s pitch black outside already. And that can definitely put me into a bit more of a “funk” than the spring and summer days, when there’s still hours of beautiful weather ahead of us as I’m waltzing out the office door.

So, how can we beat these “winter blues?”

1. Exercise

Yeah, I know.  There are so many reasons not to. ‘Tis the season for cozy slippers, not running shoes. But one thing I’ve discovered over the years is that I ALWAYS feel better about life and myself when I’m working out. When I put fitness on the back burner, it affects me mentally and physically. Brandon and I are actually trying to secure a used treadmill right now, just so we can get back on track with our running. But even without a treadmill, you can still exercise. YouTube, anyone?

2. Relax

It can be so easy to forget to relax as a busy mama. But you NEED time to recharge. What do you find relaxing? I’ll let you in on my secret: I love watching Hallmark Christmas movies, so on Saturdays and Sundays during nap/quiet time, Brandon grabs me a Christmas blanket and I camp out in bed by myself for as long as humanly possible. I watch as much of a movie as I can get in before my babies need me again. Yes, I could be doing something useful around the house. But I’m choosing R&R instead.

3. Go Outside

If you live somewhere where a nice day pops up in the winter sometimes, take advantage! Or, if you live in a place that rarely gets snow, go outside if it does snow! That fresh air, that peek of sun, can really do some good. Whether you go out for a walk by yourself, or out to play with the fam, it can help to get some Vitamin D ☺

4. Listen to Music

Our house is on a Christmas-music only kick currently, and thanks to Alexa, we have music playing almost constantly. Fun, upbeat music and dancing around the kitchen with my kids can help me get out of my own head and just enjoy the moment.

5. Talk to a Friend

Why not use your winter blues as an excuse to get in touch with a friend? Talking to someone other than your husband and kids is probably a good idea any time…but if you’re a little down, laughing with your BFF might feel pretty darn good.

6. Read

You know what makes me happy? Escaping into the wonderful world of chick lit.  😉 If you like to read, try to take some extra time to sit down with a cozy blanket and a good book!! And coffee or hot chocolate, of course.

7. Set Goals

Maybe the end of 2018 isn’t going that great. Maybe 2018 was terrible as a whole. Whatever the case, looking ahead to a fresh start in the new year, setting some goals, and starting to plan on how to CRUSH those goals can put a positive perspective on things. Grab some paper and start writing.

8. Journaling

Speaking of writing, why not journal? Sometimes just writing things down can help so much!! Not only are you purging negative thoughts, maybe writing issues on paper will enable you to come up with solutions.

9. Get creative

Do you craft? Knit? Bake cute cookies? Whatever you enjoy creating, do it!!

10. Eat Healthy Foods

Well, obviously you get a pass on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. But the other days of winter? Try to choose healthier foods. I know it’s not as fun to slam down a salad as it is a burger, but don’t you just feel better when you eat better? I sure do. And the healthier we eat, the more energy we have to get up and enjoy life!

Do you feel like winter time affects your mood? How do you beat the blues?