As the bitter cold and dreary skies of the winter months approach, many people suffer from what is known as the "Winter Blues." Being stuck in the house for the seemingly endless winter can be enough to drive you crazy, and get you feeling down and depressed. Especially in Cleveland, where below zero temperatures and multiple feet of snow are nothing out of the ordinary. But don't let this winter get the best of you! Here are some simple ways to fight against a moody winter.
Increase your intake of Vitamin D
It is extremely common for us to become Vitamin D deficient in the months of December to March. Exposure to the ultraviolet rays of the sun provides our bodies with this vitamin, which not only increases our mood, but also supports strong bones and immune and muscle function. Because most people stay inside as much as possible in the winter, a Vitamin D supplement from your local drugstore is the best option to avoid deficiency.
Make an upbeat, happy playlist
I'm sorry, but Adele's newest hit "Hello" is not allowed on this playlist. The last thing you need is to be staring out the window, watching the snow fall and reminiscing on your last relationship with tears welling up in your eyes. Collect some tunes that get you in a good mood and whip it out whenever you need a pick-me-up on a commute in the car.
Get some exercise
Consistent exercise will release a "feel good" endorphin that will increase your mood and get you feeling less glum and gloomy. Leading an active lifestyle by taking a brisk walk/run (bundle up!), or heading to the gym to jump on the treadmill or elliptical for at least 20 minutes will really help put you in a chipper mood.
Socialize
There's nothing that will put you in a more terrible mood than isolating yourself from humanity in the winter! Hibernation is not the answer, people. You're never, ever too old for an impromptu sledding trip or snowball fight. If you loathe the outdoors, get some friends together for some hot chocolate or a cozy movie night. Just please, take my advice, and stay in communication with the outside world.
Laugh
Don't underestimate the power of a good laugh! It burns calories and makes you happy at the same time. There's nothing better than a chuckle or two to brighten your day. Find one of your favorite comedies on Netflix, grab a humorous book from the library, or spend some time with one of those friends that leaves you with a stomach cramp from laughing for too long.
It's your own responsibility to get your emotions in check in the winter time. If you find that the "Winter Blues" have been a yearly pattern, this year is the year to bring it to a halt!
