HOW TO BEAT YOUR WINTER BLUES

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Submitted Date 01/30/2019
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As I currently write this in my tiny Chicago apartment, I am blasting the heat in preparation of the cold frigid week that lies ahead of me. When I think of winter blues, I really don’t know what it is I’m thinking of. It feels that every winter sucks the life out of me, so much so, that by the time spring comes as forgotten all about what happened during the past season… besides the winter blues.

After years of dealing with these winter blues, I have been lucky to finally have come up a few solutions to combat these frosty days. Some solutions are warm and cozy, while some more practical solutions you can purchase on Amazon. Nevertheless, I hope I can help you combat your winter blues with these ideas that have proved me well my past four years in the cold Chicago climates.

1. Quit neglecting your social life
I’ve been guilty of this every passing winter, but unfortunately seeing less of your friends just so happens to make the winter blues that much more mundane. My advice on how to beat this is to set aside one day a week/weekend where you and your pals agree to meet up to enjoy some quality, cozy, bonding time. This could either be a get together at someone's house or a weekly visit to a cozy tavern. Even put aside a bit of cash each week (if you don’t already drive) for an Uber/Lyft/taxi to this meet up, so not even the bitter cold can threaten you to stay in!

2. Invest in a “Happy Light”
In case you didn’t know, a more scientific term for winter blues is Seasonal Affective Disorder. SAD is a form of depression associated with colder seasons due to the lack of natural outdoor light. A common way to treat SAD is through light therapy, which is less expensive than it sounds. This is because you can invest in a light box that simulates daylight and is best used for about 30 minutes a day. I personally can vouch for this product, as it has made a huge difference in the past two years I have been using it. Always do your research before buying one so you can be confident it is the right solution for you. If you are interested in buying one, check out Amazon for a variety of light boxes that range in prices. Good luck and lighten up!

3. Get Into an Exercise Routine
While this may seem like a dreadful option, once you get started, you may actually look forward to it! Even 30 minutes of exercise can make a huge difference in your frame of mind. However, exercise works best when you make it a part of your routine. So put aside some time each day or week to get moving and boost your mood. Not only will you feel better, but you will look better and more in shape by the time spring and summer finally come!

4. Remember Why You Love Winter
Well, not many people would say winter is their favorite season. Perhaps snowboarders? Ice fishers? Crazy people? Either way, even if winter isn’t your favorite time of the year, it does have some good qualities we often forget. Let’s be honest, nothing is cozier than sitting inside on a snowy day with a warm blanket and a hot cup of cocoa. You never see an adorable dog wearing a cute sweater during the summer either, do you? Not to mention fuzzy socks, sweaters, blankets, pillows, and… well, you get the point. Winter isn’t too bad, so take advantage of the wonderful things it does offer us.

I hope these tips on curing winter blues have inspired you to look at the season with a new perspective! If so, please share with your friends and I would love to hear your feedback.

Replace intimidation with curiosity. Be your authentic self with everyone you meet, so you make authentic connections.

Comments

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  • David Ross Washington Jr 5 years, 1 month ago

    Get Into an Exercise Routine
    This is definitely a good one. Excise always lifts my spirits. I think Exercise, and music are great motivators to uplift your spirit. They speak to, and it literally tap into your soul. I think Winter is a good time to think, be introspective, catch up on some shows maybe you put aside for work and binge, or that movie you wanted to watch on Netflix. It's so many things you can do in the Winter, it's just all in your perspective.

    • Tomas Chough 5 years, 1 month ago

      This is great Emily! And I agree with David! I used to get kind of depressed during the winter or rainy/stormy days. Until I changed my perspective! Like you said, it's about looking at the pleasure of winter and learning to enjoy for what it is. Also, taking into account all the things you CAN do instead of focusing on the negatives. Thanks so much for sharing!

  • Miranda Fotia 4 years, 11 months ago

    Great advice! Thanks for sharing!

  • Jacqueline Hemingway 1 year, 6 months ago

    What a great perspective on my least favorite season! I took the more drastic approach…I moved to Florida! Awesome tips Emily!