Although there’s a lot to love about winter (hello, boots and scarves!), the rainy season is often the tipping point for a lot of people in terms of their mental health. Commonly referred to as the “winter blues”, there’s a syndrome called Seasonal Affective Disorder (or SAD – fitting, right?), which is super common and is characterised by feeling more depressed over the winter months.
Now, if you’re feeling really low, like you can’t cope or you need support, then please reach out and get some help – we all need it from time to time! However, if you’re just feeling a bit glum and dreary, there are a few things you can do to help boost your energy levels and mood.
1. Get as much light as possible
Although sunshine is harder to find over winter, try to get out as much as you can – even if it’s still cloudy. Sit closer to windows throughout the day if you can, and make any excuse you need to to get outside as much as possible.
2. Keep your eating and water intake on track
Although it’s tempting to gorge back on the cream donuts and hot chocolates over winter (guilty), try to stay balanced and keep up your nutrition and water levels. Soup is a great way to pack the veges in! Remember to keep drinking lots of water (especially if you work somewhere with air conditioning) as you still need it, even if you don’t get as hot and thirsty as you do over summer.
3. Exercise away the winter blues
It’s harder to motivate yourself to go for a run when it’s pouring down outside – I know! Try to still stay active, whether it’s through joining a regular gym class or doing yoga videos in your lounge at home in front of the fire. Get those endorphins pumping!
4. Play up-beat music
I swear I sound like a broken record when I say this (get it?!), but music plays a massive part in your mood. Have a Spotify playlist ready, and crank it up when you need a bit of a boost. Bonus exercise points if it gets you dancing too!
5. Have something to look forward to
If there was ever a key to happiness, I think this might be it – or it’s at least in the running! Having something to look forward to, whether it’s a big trip or even just a night out, will keep you motivated and positive. You’ll have that “at least I’ve got xxxx coming up” to hang on to when things get a bit tough. Sometimes that’s all you need – the light at the end of the long winter tunnel!
Do you feel like winter affects your mood? Check in with yourself regularly, and try these tips if you feel like they’d be helpful!
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Written by Bunny T
A mama of two who advocates for mental health awareness (yes girl!), Bunny is a badass babe blogging about womanhood, motherhood and the adventures that happen in between. You’ll usually find her exercising (running after kids), partying (drinking coffee) and rocking out (sleeping).
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