When your mood is falling during the winter months, these small lifestyle changes will help lift your spirits. Now that we are well into January, dealing with our holiday bills or what I like to refer to as the “January disease”, you have to do what you can to deal with the mid-winter blues.
1. Adopt a healthier lifestyle.
Choosing to adopt a healthier and smarter diet does wonder for your mood and your body. From glowing skin, healthier nails, and constantly being in a heightened emotional state, there are so many more reasons to incorporate a healthier diet.
2. Exercise.
Introducing or incorporating exercise into your lifestyle has proven to improve winter blues or symptoms of mild depression. While some might not enjoy the gym environment, make it a point to go for a walk every day because it definitely works to boost your metabolism as well as your mood. And if you enjoy being in the gym, go more frequently. Exercise has done tremendous things for me, so I definitely can say that if you haven’t tried it, you should.
3. Make your environment brighter.
When your body is craving more daylight, sitting next to an artificial light – also known as a light box – for about 20 – 30 minutes per day has proven to be just as effective as antidepressant medication. Opening blinds and curtains, sitting closer to windows or areas where natural light is coming in will definitely lift your spirits. It is dark enough during winter, so take the time to get outside during light hours or purchase a light.
4. Music therapy.
Huffington Post published an article that detailed how music has a powerful impact on our brain and our mood. It’s not rocket science given the multiple ways you can access your playlists from anywhere in the world. The music you listen to has a direct effect on your emotional state and how we feel. In a 2013 study, researchers showed that listening to upbeat or cheery music significantly improved participant’s mood in both the short and long-term.
5. Plan a vacation.
Just planning or anticipating your next trip can make you happier than actually taking it, which is why you should start planning that next vacation as soon as possible!
These are just my tips, but what works for you during the winter season to beat those winter blues?
