Beating the Winter Blues
My favorite ways to feel better through these darker winter months.
However cliche it may sound, the winter blues are a real thing during these colder, darker months!
Whether you’re noticing that you just aren’t feeling quite as energetic, inspired or motivated in your work as you usually are, or you’ve caught yourself completely skipping your self-care routine, I’ve been there, too.
Let’s beat those winter blues together with these 9 simple tips!
1. Create a list
So, when it comes to beating the winter blues? I start with creating a list. Because lists are good - they’re productive, efficient, and oddly satisfying. (Anyone else?) If you’re in need of some list-building ideas, here’s a snippet from my own list:
Spending time in the sun
Hiking
Reading
Walking
Creating a cozy, gloomy day in with lighting and movies
Baking
My list might look similar or completely different to yours, but the important first step in the “beating the winter blues” process is to identify what you love and write it down.
Before you do anything else, grab a piece of paper or open the “notes” app on your phone, and write down the things that make you happy. Then, commit to crossing off at least one of those things from your list every day, no matter how busy you may be.
You can do it, I promise!
2. Give yourself a spa day
It’s always a good day for a spa day - especially when it’s cold and rainy outside. If you need some at-home spa day tips, just click here!
3. Find fun things to do in your area
When in doubt, I love Googling random hidden gems in my area. Regardless of where you live, there’s always something fun to do or explore, even on the gloomiest of days.
4. Light your favorite candles
And dim your lights! Then grab a blanket, a snack, and your movie or book of choice.
5. Do a quick morning cleaning
If you have time, of course! A fresh home is always a great mood booster. You can also rearrange your space to lift your spirits and change up the energy of your home!
6. Pamper your hair
That confidence boost that accompanies a salon trip can do so much for your mental health and positivity. Whether you want to go for the full experience with highlights, color and extensions, or you’d like to make some small, simple changes, a good hair appointment can cure most woes.
If you’re in the market for a quick and simple hair pampering session, try booking a treatment, gloss, or snipping those dead ends!
7. Schedule time for more self care
If you’re not in the market for a hair appointment, book yourself time to take care of your nails, or get a massage or facial. Spending that hour or two on yourself can be so relaxing and restorative.
8. Find a way to move
Even if you can’t get outside (thanks rain), do your best to find a way to move. I use an indoor exercise bike with preloaded scenic rides to make me feel like I’m getting a little bit of outdoor time.
Go to the gym, do some at-home exercises, walk around in the mall or find a roller or ice rink! You can even go bowling or mini golfing - you get the gist. Just do anything you can to get up and feel like you’re moving.
9. Increase Vitamin D intake
Depending on where you live, missing out on Vitamin D can dramatically affect your mental health, and serve to amplify those winter blues. There are some easy fixes for this, such as mood-boosting lights or Vitamin D supplements. Of course, I’m not a doctor - so please consult with yours before beginning any supplements!
Let’s wave goodbye to our winter blues together, shall we?
And if you’re in the mood for a hair pampering session, you can apply for an appointment here.
