Winter solstice falls on December, 21, and is the official start of winter. It is the shortest day of the year and the longest night when the earth reaches its maximum tilt away from the sun. For those who love winter, it can be a time of rest and peace, or a time of fun with snow sports. For others, limited daylight hours and cold temperatures could make them feel a little glum. If winter is hard for you, here are 7 tips to help cheer you up and get you through winter!
1. Stay social. Winter is a great time to catch up with friends and family. Explore new coffee shops and meet up with a friend. Have family over for dinner or a game night. Stop by elderly friends for a visit who don’t get out much. Warm conversation and connection will brighten your day.
2. Be active. Take a walk – bundle up and get out there. Fresh air is good for the lungs and good for the soul. Or try a heated yoga class, indoor swimming, or even dancing. Physical activity will boost your mood and mental clarity.
3. Enjoy entertainment. Yucky weather and dark evenings make winter the perfect time to go see a movie at the theater, take in a play or a show, or see a concert. A few hours of entertainment will not only help pass the time, but get you feeling better.
4. Pamper yourself. Get your nails done, or a massage or reflexology! Physical touch can help relieve anxiety and stress, and chase the winter blahs away. Whatever your preference, a little pampering goes a long way in making you feel better.
5. Recoup with relaxation. Read a good book by the fire, or take a bath, or sit on a heating pad. A good book gives you something to look forward to on those dreary evenings and just sitting by the fire increases your sense of well being and calm. There are simple ways to warm up and cheer up right at home!
6. Work on a project. Is there a project around the house you can get excited about? Maybe painting the bathroom and putting in a new vanity? Or redecorating your bedroom? A home project will keep you busy and looking forward to the finished product.
7. Go shopping (or window shopping). Take a trip to the mall where there are lights and music and people. Stop by a home store to dream about renovations you want to make, or pick out a few new decorations. Even if you’re just window shopping, it gets you out of the house and gets you moving.
Winter can be hard to get through, but try to plan something every week to look forward to! Get out of the house, enjoy conversation, and give yourself a little love – and before you know it, it will be spring.
