Winter doesn’t technically start until December 21st, but already the days are short, the nights are long, and some parts of the word are struggling with freezing temperatures and lots of snow.
For everyone who adores winter (and there are a lot of you out there!), there’s someone who just wants to hide away until the clocks go forward again. If you’re one of those people, here are 20 tips to help you beat the winter blues…
01. Get some sun
It’s tempting to hibernate indoors until spring comes again, but sunlight will make you feel healthier and happier, so wrap up warm, and catch some rays.
02. Try light therapy
Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.) is caused by lack of natural light, and can make you feel tired, run-down and lacking in motivation. Using a lightbox for a short period of time every day can help combat that on days when the sun doesn’t seem to rise.
03. Wake up naturally
Also designed for the treatment of S.A.D., the Lumie Bodyclock will wake you up gradually and naturally, by mimicking a sunrise in your room: much better than getting out of bed in the dark!
04. Book a break
OK, it might not be feasible for all of us, but if you can afford a quick getaway to sunnier shores, it’ll boost your mood and make winter feel shorter.
05. Feather your nest
You spend a lot of time indoors when the days are short and cold, so now’s the time to tackle any home improvement projects you have planned, and make your home as cosy and welcoming as you can.
06. Buy some thermals
They’re the best way to stay warm, without having to pile on too many layers.
07. Improve your outerwear
Shopping can be a great mood-booster, so if your winter coat needs replacing, a bit of retail therapy can improve your mood AND your wardrobe.
08. Light a candle
Fill your home with festive scents to help remind yourself of the good things about the season.
09. Read a good book
Winter is the perfect time to curl up and get lost in a book – or two, or three, or four…
10. Eat well
Don’t be tempted to go for comfort food unless it’s the healthy kind – it’ll only make you feel worse. Instead, read up on some healthy recipes: if you can’t cook, now’s a good time to learn!
11. Phone a friend
Winter can be an isolating time, as everyone retreats inside and waits for better weather. Make the effort to stay in touch with friends, and organise some social activities to beat the winter blues.
12. Start a new hobby
Write a novel, learn to knit, master a new language – anything to fill your days and give you a sense of accomplishment.
13. Clear out your closet
Pack away the summer clothes and reorganise the winter ones: you’ll feel better, and might rediscover some old favourites in the process.
14. Spring clean in winter
Most people are familiar with the concept of the Spring Clean, but deep-cleaning your home at the start of winter is also a good way to prepare for the season and create a more pleasant environment to relax in. Speaking of which…
15. Relax!
Winter can be tough, so be kind to yourself and schedule in some downtime when you don’t have to do anything, or be anywhere.
16. Reward yourself
You don’t have to spend a small fortune, but budgeting for the occasional treat, whether it be a trip to the cinema or a pair of new shoes will give you something to look forward to.
17. Dance
Music and dancing help release endorphins which make you feel happier, so put on your favourite track, turn up the volume and dance!
18. Take Vitamin D
It’s believe that lack of vitamin D from sunglight can contribute to Seasonal Affective Disorder, so if you think you’re affected, try some supplements.
19. Find something to look forward to
Can’t afford that winter sun holiday? Book a summer break instead, and start planning now!
20. Look on the bright side
It may be cold and dark outside, but there are plenty of things to enjoy about winter, too: Christmas, ice-skating, even just snuggling up in the warmth as the snow falls outside. Try focusing on the things you DO like about winter, rather than the things that get you down – you never know, you might even find some more reasons to enjoy the coldest time of year!
