Living Well: How to Fight Back (And Win) Against the Winter Blues

How to Fight Back (And Win) Against the Winter Blues

Struggling with the colder, shorter days or just the general ‘blah’ feeling associated with the season? You may be experiencing the winter blues, which typically occurs during the year’s darker winter months. It’s more common than you think!

We’ve rounded up four ways to help you combat the blues this winter:

Distract Yourself

Focus your thoughts on a new project that can provide you with a sense of accomplishment – learn a new language, declutter the garage, attempt a different recipe, or try clearing your mind through mediation. A great meditative technique is the 4-7-8 method: breath in through your nose for a count of four seconds, hold for seven seconds, and then exhale through your mouth for eight seconds. Repeat.
Keep Moving

An effective way to increase your physical energy and boost your mood is to move your body. Go for a walk, do a yoga stretch, shovel snow, clean the house, or try out an online fitness app. Just keep moving.
Fuel Up on the Good Things

It’s especially important during the winter months to fuel up on nourishing foods, aim for 8 – 9 hours of sleep, and ensure you are getting some vitamin D. Spending time in natural light by heading outdoors bundled up, opening blinds and curtains, or just sitting closer to a window can help fend off the winter blues. Even just listening to upbeat or ‘happy’ music or podcasts can improve your mood.
Build a Positive Support System

Surrounding yourself with positive people (even virtually) can help you to remain emotionally and socially connected during difficult times. Communicating regularly with a trusted network of people – a close friend, family member, coworker, support group, professional, etc. – can help to act as a sounding board when life gets tough. Do not be afraid to ask for help if you need it.