Thanksgiving is officially over, which means it's finally the most wonderful time of the year. The frigid snow and the welcoming fireplace leaves us all feeling more joyful this season, but the reality is, this winter wonderland isn't always holly and jolly. With the days becoming darker sooner and the crisp air blowing, seasonal depression seems to set in. You're not alone. This is also known as the 'winter blues.' Surround yourself with your family and friends this season and try to maintain cheerful. Don't beat yourself up for feeling more depressed, it happens to the best of us. Instead, comfort yourself and incorporate these little self-care steps to lift your spirits this holiday season.
1. Warm Baths
[rebelmouse-proxy-image https://media.rbl.ms/image?u=%2Ffiles%2F2016%2F11%2F23%2F6361545699390798841621182651_giphy.gif&ho=https%3A%2F%2Faz616578.vo.msecnd.net&s=28&h=f0d3577300615ed3dda371fc79b7ca709da3e979aedcb2da475cff8396e0ffb3&size=980x&c=1273172113 crop_info="%7B%22image%22%3A%20%22https%3A//media.rbl.ms/image%3Fu%3D%252Ffiles%252F2016%252F11%252F23%252F6361545699390798841621182651_giphy.gif%26ho%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Faz616578.vo.msecnd.net%26s%3D28%26h%3Df0d3577300615ed3dda371fc79b7ca709da3e979aedcb2da475cff8396e0ffb3%26size%3D980x%26c%3D1273172113%22%7D" expand=1]Whether you already incorporate baths in your self-care routine, or if you never have time to, make a conscious decision this winter to take more baths. You deserve it! Nothing brings you more into a state of relaxation then submerging your body in steaming hot water, Christmas candles lit, and snow flurries blowing in the wind. Focus on you!
2. Body Scrubs
Body scrubs are crucial this winter. By exfoliating and hydrating, your skin will thank you so much. It's always good to get rid of your dry skin while receiving a little massage as well. It also leaves your skin feeling soft and extremely smooth. You can find amazing body scrubs at a lot of stores, including Walgreens and Lush. If you are feeling creative, you can also make your own by combining coconut oil, sugar, and peppermint essential oil!
3. Essential Oils
It's inevitable that you or your family member will come down with a cold. It's never fun to feel under the weather, especially around the holidays. I am in complete shock every time I use my essential oils because they work like magic every time. When I feel a sore throat or stuffy nose approaching, I make sure to diffuse my essential oils through out the night. I always end up waking up feeling so much better, if not completely healed. These are a must!
4. Enjoy The Snow
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I know it's easy to jump to conclusions and hate the snow. When we are frustrated we can blame the cold. Instead of complaining, embrace it! It might be harder to drive and you might slip a few times, but it's only a white winter wonderland once a year. Don't be a grinch!
5. Moisturize
We should always be moisturizing, but especially in the winter. With our skin having a greater risk of getting dry, avoid the discomfort and moisture daily! It's helpful to keep a mini lotion in your purse, car, or pocket. Whether it's before you go out, when you wake up, or before you go to bed, these little steps go a long way! Coconut oil is my favorite.
6. Chapstick
Not only is our skin prone to getting dry, you will most likely find your lips getting more chapped. There is nothing worse than when you're out with friends/family, and you can never get comfortable because your lips are chapped. It's better to be safe than sorry, so make sure you slip some chapstick in your bag/pocket next time you leave the house. It also doesn't hurt to apply some chapstick when you wake up/before you go to bed.
7. Homemade Gifts
This season is all about giving. If you find yourself unmotivated or depressed, get on your feet, pull up Pinterest, and get creative. Sometimes in order to feel better, you have to take your attention off of all your negative feelings, and turn your attention towards your loved ones.
8. Christmas Music
Christmas music is always a cure to seasonal depression at least for a little. Whether you are driving around the block amazed by all the glowing decorations, or you're sitting around your fireplace, don't skip out on the Christmas music.
