Winter can be a very depressing time of year. It's cold, it gets darker earlier in the day and sometimes it snows. And don't get me wrong, the snow can be great for the first 45 minutes, but then you realize you have to dig out your car and shovel the sidewalk, thats no fun. The months after the holidays there isn't much to look forward to until the weather gets warmer. So combating the cold weather can take a lot of energy out of us. The mere act of getting out of our warm beds in the morning is extremely difficult. Just the thought of my warm bed right now, makes me sleepy. So the question is what motivates us to get through the winter months without going crazy. Here are a few fun tips to keep you warm, happy and healthy through the very cold winter.

1. Get some sunlight.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a common form of depression that can happen during the change of the season. This is usually common in the winter months when there is not a lot of sunlight. Your body physically craves sunlight. So sit near a window to soak up some rays when it's too cold outside to sun bathe.

2. Take Vitamin D supplements.

Your body needs vitamin D and we get some of our vitamin D from the Sun.

3. Eat smarter.

Did you know that chocolate can help enhance your mood and relieve anxiety! Carbohydrates also provide short term feelings of euphoria. Don't forget the fruits and veggies.

4. Exercise regularly

go to the gym or take your dog for a walk. Stay active during the winter months. The release of endorphins will help with your mood.

5. Listen to some up beat music.

Find some music of any style that you like and just jam out to it.

6. Plan a vacation or a weekend get away.

Getting away from reality and life for a few days can be very beneficial to your mental health. take some time to catch up on your TV shows and reading list.

7. Go outside.

Even though it is cold, suck it up and bundle up. Put your heaviest clothes on or even wrap yourself in a blanket. Go for a walk outside and enjoy the fresh air.

8. Make plans with people.

Go out with friends and stay social. Go out to dinner, see a movie, or a party. We are social human beings, we need to social and physically contact with each other.

9. Make and stick to a sleep schedule.

Sleep is very very very important for humans. But too much sleep can have negative side effects. Go to bed and wake up at the same time for most days of the week, especially during the work week.