How to beat the winter blues

Shorter days, more school work and chillier weather are all reasons for people to have the winter blues, but that doesn’t have to stop you from achieving a little peace of mind and some happiness throughout the winter. 

Here are my favorite ways to beat the winter blues.

Light a candle

Candles are such a soothing way to bring serenity into your workspace or home. Find a relaxing scent to help you calm down and focus on self-care.

Get a therapy light

If you’re missing being out in the sun, therapy lights are a great way to reap benefits that help your mood and sleep. Set some time aside every day to decompress under your therapy light so you have some stress-free time to rest.

Hang out with friends and family

Surrounding yourself with community can evoke a lot of joy. Maybe you’ll relive the best vacation you went on or the last night you went dancing. Hanging out with your loved ones can also just be a good way to take your mind off of work and school so you can be in the present moment.

Take a vacation

Whether it’s a staycation or you’re going somewhere warm, vacations take you away from daily life and can provide total peace. Depending on what vacations you like, that can mean going on an adventure in Malibu or staying home and relaxing while watching a movie. 

Develop a workout routine

Exercise can relieve stress and improve your sleep. Download a workout app like OpenFit, go to the Barnes’ Center or join a club sport or dance team. Whatever makes you move and feel good inside will be sure to bring fun into your schedule of class and work. 

Stick to a sleep schedule

A good night’s sleep can help you take on whatever the day has in store for you. Going to bed and waking up at similar times every night can help your body maintain a natural timer which will keep you more awake throughout the day.

Take a break from social media

A break from social media can help you to live more in the moment and reconnect with reality.

Make a nice drink

Coffee, tea, hot cocoa or your drink of choice can help as you watch the snow fall.

Make a bucket list

There are so many winter activities around the snowy tundra we call Syracuse, and it can be easy to forget them all. Writing your favorites down in your notes app or on a piece of paper can help remind you when it comes to the weekend. 

Make your space cozy

Embrace the cold from the comfort of your bundles of fuzzy blankets with a cup of cocoa in hand. Making your space zen with a Himalayan salt lamp can feel almost like a cozy fireplace in your room, too.