I'm gonna say this one time and one time only, loud enough for the whole internet to hear.

I hate winter.

It's straight up depressing, and most definitely ranked last of all the seasons. Don't get me wrong, I love Christmas and New Year's, and I even love to ski. But when I'm not having fun, walking through the bitter cold to my 8:30 AM class makes me want to absolutely die.

If you feel like this too, here are seven ways to boost your mood this winter season.

1. Exercise

Sorry, but it's true. You don't have to bundle up and go for an outdoor run, but rounding up a few of your friends to run to the gym, a SoulCycle class, or even just to do a fun workout video can be a really great way to make you feel better about yourself and your health.

2. Plan a spring break trip (even if you're not actually going on one)

Think of the sun, the beach, getting tan, and chilling out instead of your endless cycle of stress-inducing schoolwork. Even if you're not really going on spring break, it's oddly therapeutic to scroll through Pinterest and look at some beautiful ocean waves.

3. Watch your favorite movie

This can feel like a waste of time, especially if you're drowning in work, but carving out time in your schedule to do something that you know you will enjoy can make all the difference.

4. Spice up your hot chocolate

Pinterest is full of fun recipes to make your hot chocolate more fun like adding peanut butter or Nutella to an average cup. Grab some friends and try a few on a weeknight when you all need to relax.

5. Shop for cute winter clothes and accessories

This can easily turn into an expensive tip, but a good outfit truly can turn around your whole day. Treat yourself by picking up that scarf that you always thought was so cute, or splurging on a new pair of boots. When you're excited to be out and about in your new clothes, you'll barely notice the cold temps.

6. Smile more, even when you're walking to class

How depressing is it to walk by students around campus and seeing a hundred frowns? Be the smile that everyone else sees, even if you're the only one. Even if you're not in a good mood, just fake it til ya make it.

7. Meditate regularly

No, really. By finding a moment of inner peace, you're putting yourself in a state of momentary silence. You are more likely to have a positive outlook on your day or week afterward. Not sure where to begin? Check out some tips here .