Do the winter months make you feel like you want to hibernate until spring? Some people might feel gloomy, extra tired, anxious, and a loss of motivation. This is a common feeling for people experiencing the “winter blues.” During the winter months, it is cold and there is less daylight, which leaves people dreading getting out of bed in the morning and wishing they could crawl into bed sooner at night. For some, they are going to work before the sun is out and come home after it sets, which can make it more difficult. We might find ourselves wishing we could be Buddy the elf during winter, but we end up feeling more like the Grinch.
How do we combat these winter blues? Listen to what your body is trying to tell you and nurture it through various activities of self-care. Here are some examples of actions you can take to conquer your winter blues;
Get more light. It can be helpful if you’re able to get more natural light by bundling up and going on a walk or opening up the shades in your home and spending time in the light.
Move your body. Exercise can be a great tool to boost mood. Even stretching your body can be helpful.
Keep a routine. Maintaining a schedule can increase productivity and motivation. Your sleep routine is especially important. Ensure your schedule is balanced for work and relaxation.
Spend time with loved ones. When we can connect with those who are important, it can warm our hearts back up with support. This might be difficult during the COVID-19 pandemic, but one can try to find ways to connect like playing a game via Zoom with friends or family.
Get creative. Find things that uplift you. This might look like lighting your favorite candles, wearing your favorite fleece pajamas, lathering up in your favorite scented lotion, or cooking your favorite winter meal.
What do you like to do to beat the winter blues? Personally, I like to curl up on the couch with a soft blanket by a fireplace with a cup of hot chocolate and a Hallmark movie on the TV.
If your feelings of winter blues persist or become too overwhelming, contact a medical professional for assistance. The number for the National Suicide Hotline is 1-800-273-8255 or for a crisis you can text the word HOME to 741741 for emergency emotional support.
Blog post written by Alex Ziemann, LPC of Green Door Therapy.