Beat the Winter Blues

Now that the Holidays are over, we are in the midst of a long period of winter. It seems of all the seasons, winter lasts the longest. Dark mornings, dark nights, unsettling weather, bitter cold, less time outside - it can be a tough season for our mental and physical health. We get it. We’ve found a few things that help us get through this season with more grace and happiness so we thought we’d share!

Get outside. We know it’s cold - but if you dress properly, it’s really not that bad! Invest in some good winter gear and get some fresh air. Find a nice winter walk that you enjoy and embrace the beauty around you. It is proven that being outdoors in nature can boost your mood, mental and cognitive health and overall wellbeing. So grab your coat and get out there!

Light therapy. This involves sitting in front of a light box for 20-30 minutes each morning to stimulate natural sunlight which can reduce melatonin levels and boost serotonin helping you enhance your mood, not feel so tired, help you regulate sleep and improve your focus and energy levels. You don’t have to stare right at it, just have it near you and figure out the right amount of time and light that works for you!

Get social. It’s really easy to hibernate during the winter months. It’s cold, it’s dark, who would want to go out in this! However, your cup needs to be filled with your people so you don’t isolate yourself and feel lonely. Find the people that bring you joy and try to get out with them as much as you can. It doesn’t have to be every day, but a simple walk, a coffee date or dinner can do wonders for your soul. 

Keep moving. Exercise boosts your “happy hormones” so it’s important during these months where you may be feeling a little glum, to keep moving your body. Do what makes you feel good and you’ll find that you’ll feel so much better after your workout and that happiness will carry over into the rest of your day! Maybe find a friend to workout with or a trainer if you’re lacking motivation this season. 

Eat nutritious foods. When we’re not feeling our best it’s normal to reach for things that make us feel better. Sometimes these can be “comfort foods” such as carbohydrates like crackers, cookies and other sweets. Sometimes it can be alcohol. It’s okay to have these in moderation, but try not to make it the bulk of your diet, especially when you’re feeling low. It may make you feel better short term, but long term this way of eating can lead to many health problems. Instead, aim to eat nutritious foods that make you feel good! High quality protein, whole grains, lots of veggies and fruits of every color and healthy fats. Not sure how to do this? Ask one of our health coaches!

Get off social media. Social media can often times make us feel worse. Comparing ourselves to others can diminish our self esteem and mental wellbeing. If you find yourself feeling down, find your people instead of scrolling social media.

Find your happy place. If you have a place in a warmer climate - go there! If you don’t, book something to look forward to. It could be a ski trip in Vermont or a sunny beach vacation in February. Whatever it is, it’s something to look forward to and plan for!

Be kind to yourself. It’s ok to feel the way you’re feeling. Remember this is a season, it’s not forever.  Try not to beat yourself up if you’re feeling a little down in the dumps. Use these tools to get you out of your slump and back to where you feel your best, but know it doesn’t happen overnight and you must be consistent. Whatever tool(s) you use, be consistent with them. Consistency brings results!