How to Battle Your Winter Blues

You know those people who hate hot weather, love wearing ten layers under their super heavy winter coats, and obsess over freshly fallen snow? Gosh, those people have it easy in winter. That’s not everyone. Winter can be a depressing time for many. It’s dark in the winter. It’s cold frigid in the winter. Your mood can change in the winter. It might not be easy to feel happy, healthy, and vibrant in the winter. That’s why self-care is really important for you if you don’t fare well in the cold weather months. To help you tackle your winter weather blues, I’ve come up with a few ideas that can help you take advantage of wintery things. Because when life hands you raw eggs, make eggnog.

1. Warm up. Winter can be really cold, and if you hate cold weather that can be a real downer. But it offers something unique that summer doesn’t – the relief and relaxation that can come from warming up. Winter is the perfect time to relax in a hot bath before bed. Find a cinnamon spice bath bomb to enhance the experience. Or you could put on sweats, bury deep into a big blanket, and pick up that book you’ve been too busy to touch.
2. Taste the winter tastes. Just like watermelon Italian ice to cool you off on a hot summer day, there are goodies that are unique to the chillier times. Take advantage of these seasonal treats by using mindfulness to enjoy them. Take your time to slowly sip and enjoy your hot cocoa while watching the tiny marshmallows melt on top. Carefully and thoughtfully prepare a hearty stew that you can sit down to eat while fully enjoying and appreciating the flavors you taste and the love you put into creating it. Judiciously choose the best looking candy cane from the tree and take your time to enjoy the minty sweetness.
3. Take advantage of snow days. Snow days are winter perks! They are days you are supposed to be at work, and then poof! You’re stuck the house – like actually not supposed to leave. That only happens in winter. Spend some time now thinking about how you can incorporate some self-care into your bonus days off. This is your chance to binge watch that Netflix show you can’t seem to make time for. Or maybe to finish that scrapbook you started four years ago. Snow days are good for staying in the same outfit all day – your pajamas. You have time to make waffles for breakfast, and then maybe again for dinner. Do whatever it is you want to do to give yourself a break and to care for the parts of you that get neglected in the busyness of life.

These are just a few things you can do to battle winter blues. What are some ideas that YOU have? What would you add to the list?! I’d love to hear them!