Written by: Anjelika Angosta
The changing of the seasons means that we are experiencing the natural cycle of transformation and renewal through constant movement of time. For some, the changing of the seasons can signify a measure of time, but for others, the changing of the seasons simply means that it’s time to bring out the winter coats and jackets. The winter season can feel like the longest of all, with shorter days, and cold, icy, and snowy weather forecasts. Naturally, many individuals experience the “winter blues” or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). If you are currently experiencing the winter blues, or just need a little extra push to get through the winter, here are some self-care tips that could be beneficial in maintaining healthy habits to increase your mood, positivity, and warmth, helping you with making peace with the winter.
- Let the Light In: Although the winter months call for dark and cold days with limited sunshine, it is important to have exposure to sunlight and bright light. That extra dose of sunshine increases serotonin levels, which can be beneficial in providing warmth, as well as improving mood and relieving symptoms of anxiety and depression. You can Let the Light In by
- Opening up the window shades and curtains
- Sitting next to a window
- Getting out as much as possible (ie. going for a quick walk, going for a drive, etc.)
- Purchasing a lamp that has been proven to be beneficial as light therapy
- Get a Change of Scenery and Keep Moving: It can be easy to stay in our warm beds and couches snuggled up in cozy blankets in order to stay warm and comfortable, but moving your body and getting a change of scenery can increase energy levels and motivation. Exercising releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters, helping you feel happier and healthier. You can get a change of scenery and keep moving by
- Working out or taking a fitness class
- Going for a walk
- Engage in winter activities such as ice skating
- Stretching
- Laugh and Stay Connected: Although winter seems like a good time to stay in hibernation especially with the cold weather, staying in isolation could increase feelings of depression, falling into patterns of SAD. Socializing and staying connected with others can be useful as it can decrease stress and lift up your mood. You might not want to connect with others, but more often than not, you will be feeling much better after deciding to spend time with loved ones. You can stay connected with others by
- Inviting friends and family over
- Having a phone call to catch up with a friend
- Watching a movie
- Playing board games
- Going out and meeting a friend
- Turn up the Music: I don’t know about you, but music always makes me feel better! There are several studies that show that listening to cheerful music can increase your mood within seconds. Even just playing your music while doing chores can give you the motivation and boost of energy you need to get through these long winter days. I recommend making a playlist of all the music that makes you feel good so you can always have easy access to it! Turn up the Music while you are
- Getting Ready
- Cooking
- Cleaning
- Driving
- Exercising
- Going for a walk
- Find Activities You Enjoy: Finding activities that you enjoy doing could be just what you need to help you get through the winter blues. If you’ve always wanted to learn how to bake or practice your piano skills, this could be a great time to start new hobbies or get back into old hobbies. Engaging in these simple activities throughout your day could help boost your energy. It could be helpful planning these activities out with a friend so they can help keep you motivated!
If you are experiencing the SAD or the winter blues and would like to connect with one of our mental health professionals, please contact us at Grove Counseling Center!
We are accepting new clients at both our locations in Naperville and Downers Grove! To schedule with a therapist, please email Clinical Director and Psychotherapist, Kelsey Romanoff, LCPC at kromanoff@napervillewellnessandcounseling.com.
To learn more about Anjelika, at our Downers Grove location, Grove Counseling Center, click here!
