In this post: A list of 10 ways to beat the winter blues that are simple & really work. Easy ideas to make the winter months more enjoyable…no matter where you live!
The winter months can be brutal. Some of us have to deal with cold weather and gray skies. We all have to deal with the let-down that arrives when the holiday season is over. No matter who you are or where you live, there are going to be days when you wish winter was behind you. It happens to me every year…but I’ve figured out a few ways to move the days along and make them a bit more enjoyable. Here are my favorite ways to beat the winter blues!
2020 Update: I took the picture above last year when I originally wrote this post. Today, as I look out my front window, I see the exact same sight. January was a long month for me, and I was so happy to change the calendar page to February. I just wish the view out my window would change too! Chances are that blue skies are not in my future, but the following ways to beat the winter blues really do work. I’ve added a few new tips, so there are more than ten. The new ones are marked with “2020 Update.”
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How to Beat the Winter Blues
Begin With Breakfast
Begin your day with a good breakfast. I know you have heard this a million times, but it’s so important. I am a firm believer that when the day begins on a positive note, it continues that way. Click this link for some healthy breakfast suggestions.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated just makes you feel better, and you will be less likely to give into the winter blues. Drink plenty of water…and don’t forget to hydrate your skin. Dry, flaky skin is uncomfortable and you can avoid it by using a light body lotion. When I skip the lotion in the morning, I have an edgy feeling all day. My favorite lotion is plain old original scent Jergens. I know it’s not very glamorous, but it smells good and feels even better.
2020 Update: sometimes plain water is more than I can take. I have found that sparkling water is refreshing, and quenches my thirst as well as regular water. I also order it when we are out for dinner, or at a social event, since I don’t drink alcohol. My favorite flavors are Key Lime by La Croix, and Clementina by Sanpellegrino.
Let In The Light
Shorter days and dark skies can definitely make us gloomy. Combat those feelings by letting in the light. Here are a few ways to brighten your perspective:
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- Open the curtains all the way. (And ignore the dirty windows!)
- Turn on lamps.
- Light candles.
- Add Vitamin D to your daily routine.
Set One Goal
We’re not calling this a resolution. We’re calling it a goal, because it’s something we can take our time with. It’s just one thing that, on days when we are struggling, we can think about, and take a step towards making it happen. Something positive, and something that will make our lives better.
Winter Blues Relief: Treat Yourself to Fresh Flowers
I believe that fresh flowers can transform a room…and they can definitely transform a day. Treat yourself to a bunch of flowers every now and then. I promise it will make you smile.
Have a Cup of Tea
The British figured this out way before the Americans! Holding a cup of tea is comforting, and drinking a cup of tea is soothing and relaxing. It warms us up and simply makes everything better.
OSP email subscribers can download this tea inspired free printable (and three more) from the Members Only Library. If you are not on my list, but would like to join us and get this collection of blue teacup printables, click the button below.
Declutter & Clean
Sometimes our possessions can become overwhelming and out of control. When that happens, it’s difficult to relax and just “be” in our own homes. No time does that ring more true than during the winter months, when some of us are literally forced to be inside. Cleaning up piles and restoring order is the perfect way to make your indoor space more livable. By doing this, you will be able to enjoy being at home, and everything will seem easier.
Beat the Winter Blues with Essential Oils
I believe in the power of essential oils. I believe they can improve our quality of life. My daughter calls them my “potions,” and I know the actual science behind them can be hard to understand. The honest truth is that I don’t even know the actual science behind them. All I know is that they help me feel better. Peppermint takes away aches and pains, Mind Alive refreshes and makes you feel more alert. Lavender relaxes you, and Lemon is a lovely addition to bottled or tap water. All of these things have the potential to help you get through a gloomy, winter day.
Update 2020: one of my new favorite oils is Calming from Rocky Mountain Oils. I have been using it for about six months, and it has made a definite difference in my life. When I am anxious, or nervous about something, a few drops behind my ears and on my wrists does the trick. I recently had a colonoscopy, and for whatever reason, I was very nervous. I doused myself liberally with Calming, and was able to relax. It also helps when I’m tired, but still have much to do. It slows my mind, without slowing my body. I am able to take one thing at a time, and complete my tasks.
To read my essential oils story, click {HERE.}
Plan a Vacation or Stay-cation
Update 2020: having something to look forward to is essential for our mental health…and we need to plan that something for ourselves. If possible, schedule a few days away from home…preferably someplace sunny! If that’s not possible, plan something special at home that will make you happy. A movie night with your girlfriends, a special dinner with your husband, an overnight with the grandchildren. It can be anything you want…but it has to be what YOU want to do.
Take Time For Yourself & Exercise
The last two tips go hand in hand…and if I had to pick my biggest struggle in life, it would be this. I know exercise is necessary for our health. I know taking time for myself would benefit not only me, but those around me. I go through phases where I am very good at both, but inevitably I fall off the wagon and return to my old habits. I’m going to make a conscious effort to do a better job of taking care of myself, and I hope you all will do the same. Without our health and happiness, we are no good to anyone!
Yoga
Update 2020: several months ago, I began taking a yoga class once a week. I went with a few girlfriends, and the class was very small. Our instructor was our age, and very patient. When I went to my first class, I honestly didn’t know if I could even do it…let alone for an entire hour. Much to my surprise, I was able to participate fully, and thoroughly enjoyed every minute. Since then, I have tried to make the class every week. It stretches my muscles, has helped with balance, and it gets me out of the house. When I talked about my 2020 goals, I mentioned that I wanted to add a class or two to my weekly schedule. That has not happened yet, but the year is young, and there is still time!
My point in mentioning this is that if you have ever considered yoga, I encourage you to try it. I love the philosophy behind it, and the calming effect it has had on my life.
I hope you found a few tips to add to your arsenal of tricks to beat the winter blues. My wish for all of you is that the coming months are productive, healthy, and happy. Until next time…
Disclosure:
The information contained here is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. The information represents what I have chosen to do to take charge of my own personal health. Information found on this site is meant for educational and informational purposes only, and to motivate you to make your own health and well being decisions based upon your own research and in partnership with your healthcare provider. It should not be relied upon to determine a medical diagnosis, or courses of treatment.
