How to Beat the Winter Blues

The period after Christmas and New Year is hard for many people. There was this huge build up and now it’s all over and we have 2 1/2 months left of Winter. It’s wet, cold, and dark and I do believe that everyone experiences some form of seasonal depression this time of year. As I have got older I have come to love Wintertime. I don’t mind the cold and wet though I could do without the darkness. But, if you’re not like me, here is a list of a few ways I have found in the past to help me beat those Winter blues!

Get outside

One of the best ways I have found to clear my head and feel better about things is to get outside. Rain or shine, I go for a walk most days. It’s my favorite way to start the day! On the less rainy days I also like to get out to do some jobs in the garden. I put on a podcast and get to work. We don’t get a lot of snow if any where we live, so sometimes we go for a drive to find some snow to spend the day in. If you’re feeling down this Winter, get outside if you can!

Find a good TV or movie series to watch

In full transparency, I get overwhelmed starting a new TV show. If there is too many seasons it feels like such a commitment and I have been known to become overly obsessed with shows if I think they’re really good. But, this is the time of year to lean into rest and what better way to do that than to watch a new series or rewatch an old one. For TV, I recommend Emily in Paris, The Mandalorian, Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, Schitts Creek, Sex and the City, and Gossip Girl.

For movie series, I love the classics. Lord of the Rings (which I am actually finishing up again as I type this), The Hobbit series, Harry Potter (duh), My Big Fat Greek Wedding, Pirates of the Caribbean, and actually Star Wars was very good when my husband convinced me to sit down and watch. What are your favorite movie and TV show series?

Get together with friends

The month of December is usually when I connect a lot with family so naturally January is the month that I love to reconnect with friends. I’ve already had one video chat that led to planning an in person get together later this month. And, I have another video chat planned with other friends as well! Whether it’s a video call or you’re meeting in person, getting together with friends is a fun way to get your mind off of your Winter blues!

Start a new hobby

Back in September, I wrote about creative hobbies to start in Fall but these can easily be started during the Wintertime too (anytime of the year really). A new hobby is a great way to distract yourself this time of year. You’re busy learning something new and having fun so you’ll have no time to feel sad…in theory anyway. So, start that crochet project, pick up your camera and take some fun photos, or learn a new language using one of those apps! Your mental health will be all the better for it!

Volunteer

One thing I want to do this year is to find ways to volunteer. I want to build community and meet new people around where I live. I want to help those who are less fortunate and put a smile on their face. Now is the perfect time to start!

Plan a trip

Winter is the perfect time to plan your trips for the upcoming year. Plan that getaway in the sun that you’ll need once everything starts to thaw! This will create things that you can look forward too making it easier to get through the Winter!

Self-care

Self-care is so important this time of year. I make sure that I am taking time to myself to rest and recharge my batteries. My favorite way is to have a nice warm bath with candles, a glass of wine, and a good book but there are so many other ways to care for yourself. You’ll never regret making time for yourself and it’s a great habit to develop.

Get stuck into that reading list you have

I don’t know about you but I have so many books on my to be read list! Winter is the perfect time to dig into some of those reads. Cuddle up on the couch with a cut of tea or coffee and a blanket and start making your way through those books!

How to Beat the Winter Blues