If you clicked on this article, clearly the headline resonated with you. Maybe you are one of those people who look forward to the holidays but still find themselves feeling empty during the winter season. Or perhaps you know you hate this time of year when everyone’s cheer only seems to make you more upset. Regardless of which, it is clear that the Christmas/Hanukkah/Kwanzaa/etc. season is always not the most wonderful time of the year. Fear not, because this is completely normal. Along with the realization that the winter blues exist, here is a list of ways to cope.

1. Go on walks

Cold temperatures may be forcing you inside, but fresh air can seriously do you good. Grab your big puffy coat and a nice warm scarf and go for a stroll. It can be a long, introspective walk: just you and your thoughts. Maybe bring your iPod and tune into your favorite playlist. Maybe even bring a friend to talk to. Regardless, don’t spend your time sitting around inside. The lack of movement can cause you to feel sluggish, and being trapped inside can literally make you feel trapped.

2. Surround yourself with good things

It can be hard to avoid toxicity, especially if you don’t get along with family members or miss your friends from school. The best thing to do is to cancel out the negative. Surround yourself with good things. Pet your dog, maybe hide in your room for a bit when dinner conversation is stressing you out. Do not allow yourself to get bogged down in sadness, and find happiness in whatever you are doing. Catch up with friends at home or facetime friends at school. Just realizing what makes you happy and getting rid of the rest can be a wonderful cleansing experience.

3. Sleep...but not too much

When the winter blues set in, it may seem so nice to stay in bed all day every day. This can actually have the opposite effect and cause you to be even more bummed out. Set up a routine, starting with a certain wake-up time and involving meals, working out and time to relax. Try and catch up on rest by sticking to a bedtime as well. This structure can eliminate that listless feeling and keep you on the right track.

4. Make a playlist

Rediscover some of your old favorite songs, or explore new ones to create a good mood playlist. Use this playlist when driving or walking, or whenever you may be feeling down in the dumps. It can help to let go of inhibitions and sing along or have a quick dance party to get the blood flowing.

5. Avoid junk food

It may seem like the best option to cram some Christmas cookies into your mouth, but that good feeling is temporary. Instead, try to shift your diet towards complex carbs like rice, fruits, and veggies as opposed to processed foods. Make sure to drink lots of water as well, in order to stabilize your mind and body.

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