It’s always best to think of ways to stop the winter blues before they start. In other words, prevention is the best strategy. The winter blues are something that often hit people after the holidays are past and the grayness of winter sets in. Many people suffer from them to some extent. If you’re one of those people, consider these ways to stop the winter blues before they start.
Snapshot Survey
Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Please subscribe for your personalized newsletter:
Get outside
One of the ways to stop the winter blues is to actually get outside for a little bit. You don’t have to stay long but a few minutes outdoors can help break the monotony of indoor time you’re probably getting too much of. Sweep your front porch off, walk to the mailbox or take care of other small outdoor chores. This is also a way for you to get a few minutes of sunshine, which has been shown to help with winter blues. It can make a big difference.
/filters:quality(70)/thumbs/zn/r8/pvpoqqdt5c76bd76a76cf714977850_1080x1080.jpg)
Open Your Blinds
Keeping your blinds closed and sitting in darkness would make anyone feel blue. Open your blinds and let some sunshine in. Sunshine makes you feel sunny. If you suffer from a more serious form of the winter blues known as Seasonal Affective Disorder, you definitely need the sunlight. You’ll feel better when you can see outdoors, too.
/filters:quality(70)/thumbs/mp/xe/wxfqedss59af01d9777db796641955_1080x1080.jpg)
Think about the Aspects of Winter You Enjoy
One way to push the winter blues away is to think about the aspects of winter that you do enjoy. Everyone’s list will be a little different but here are a few examples. Hot chocolate, reading books by the fireplace, cozy sweaters and pretty boots are all things you may enjoy about winter. Whatever aspects you enjoy, keep them in your mind. Focus on the positive things and you’ll feel better.
/filters:quality(70)/thumbs/vs/qg/ogc7d09f59d74d171edf2764115381_1080x1080.jpg)
Don’t Hibernate
I know it’s tempting but don’t give into the desire to hibernate. Hibernating can make you feel blue. Make it a point to get out when you can. There may be days you’re stuck at home but venture out whenever the weather permits. You may not want to but you’ll feel much better afterward.
/filters:quality(70)/health/thumbs/pd/ub/k37ovll9_400x400.jpg)
Plan Things You Enjoy
Have fun things planned during the winter months. Don’t save up all your fun for summer. You should plan fun things to enjoy year round. It’s a good time to start a book club or go watch a good movie. As long as you’re doing something you enjoy, it’s going to make you feel better.
/filters:quality(70)/health/thumbs/113/079_400x300.jpg)
Those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it.
Escape It for a Bit
If you can, escape winter for a bit. Go somewhere warm and tropical and forget all about winter for a while. If that’s not an option, at least try to get out of town. Just going a couple hours away for a change of scenery can be helpful. Pick an area with fun activities you can enjoy and go for it.
/filters:quality(70)/health/thumbs/112/777_400x300.jpg)
Plan for Spring
Winter isn’t forever. That’s something positive to think about when it seems as if winter has no end. Make some plans for spring and summer while you’re inside watching it snow. Plan your summer vacation or make a menu up for a neighborhood barbecue you’d like to host. This can help shift your focus and lift your spirits.
Do you get the winter blues? How do you deal with them? I’d love to hear from you.
