10 Easy Ways You Can Fight the Winter Blues at Home

Winter has finally settled in, and it’s not going away anytime soon. Sure, we’ve gotten a few short reprieves from the bitter cold and icy precipitation so far, but we have a long way to go before spring arrives. Fortunately, there are a few simple things you can do at home to help you stay cheerful and ward off those mean ol’ winter blues.

Try these 10 tips to help lift your spirits through the remainder of the season:

Let the Light In – Even though there’s less daylight during this time of the year, there are plenty of ways you can get your fix of natural light. Perk up by opening the blinds and curtains, cleaning your windows, and even cutting back obtrusive tree branches. Even 15 minutes of sunshine can make all the difference! Should cloudy days prevail, try sitting next to a light box.

Think Bright Whites – If certain rooms in your home don’t receive much light, brighten it up with crisp white paint. Even white accessories can help add some cheerfulness to any room. Add white pillows and throws to your sofas and beds. Roll out a plush white rug under your dining room table. Treat your windows to fresh white curtains. These small changes can make quite a big difference!

Tidy Up – If your home has clutter piled in corners or on tables and countertops, you might be feeling more anxious, unmotivated, or irritable. Improve your mood by keeping your home tidy and clean. Make your bed in the morning, keep up with the dishes, and take care of the mail as soon as it arrives. Even these small actions will help lift your mood considerably!

Incorporate Your Favorite Scents – Did you know that your sense of smell connects directly to your emotions? Use this to your advantage by bringing in the right scents! We recommend orange, mint, eucalyptus, lemon, or lime to help you accomplish your to-do list and chamomile and lavender to help you unwind.

Crank Up the Tunes – Music can influence our mood in so many ways. Put together a playlist of your favorite upbeat or dance songs and play it throughout your home for a quick attitude adjustment!

Break a Sweat – Exercise releases endorphins in your body, which help regulate your mood. What better reason than to lace up your shoes and get going? For the best results, venture outside for a quick walk or to enjoy the winter wonderland around you. Just remember to bundle up with plenty of warm layers!

Eat Well – We know that box of cookies is looking pretty good right about now, but don’t give in to temptation. Fuel your body with the things it really wants – a balanced mixture of lean proteins, veggies, fruits, and complex carbs. Wanna treat yourself? Go right ahead with a little bit of decadent dark chocolate!

Discover a New Hobby – Stay active this winter with something new that interests you. Try a new board game, learn to knit, master a new language, read a few new books, or cook some adventurous recipes. Find an activity or two that you truly look forward to doing every day to help you get through the cold winter days.

Get Cozy – There might be a lot to dislike about winter, but you have the power to make it a great season full of comfort and delight! Break out your softest blankets and your coziest pajamas. Sip your favorite hot beverage while you leisurely read a good book by the fireplace. You never know – winter could wind up becoming your favorite season!

Call Up Your Friends – Get out of hibernation mode and invite your friends and family over for a good time! Host a game night or watch a hilarious movie together. Share delicious comfort food with a winter-themed potluck. Whatever it is, make sure you have fun together!

Experiencing the winter blues can make the season seem interminable. Try these handy tips to help you not only feel better but also enjoy the beauty and joy that winter brings!