This time of year can take a toll on someone - the day’s are still short and dark, holiday fun is over and you’re looking at those credit card bills, and maybe getting into that New Years resolution isn’t as cool and exciting anymore. I know I can easily fall into this funk! Here are 5 helpful tips I know that can shake me out of this seasonal depression.
Get moving! It may be the hardest thing to want to do when it’s dark at 6 pm or below freezing, but one of the best things you can do for your mind, body and soul right now is to move around. This could be in the form of traditional exercise - the gym, a yoga class, or maybe even karate! Or get moving outside - take the dog for a walk, go on a hike, even a run. Getting the blood pumping and creating those endorphins will ultimately leave you feeling more refreshed and happier.
Pump up the tunes! Music can do wonders for your emotions - just make sure it doesn’t suck you into a sad time either. Play your favorite song LOUD and dance around the kitchen. Play that song you used to listen to with your best friends during the best summer of your life. Recreate fun and fantastic memories thru the songs that take you back there.
Try a new activity! Starting something new is a great way to keep your mind focused and your brainwaves positive. Get yourself out of the same old same old rut with a new project or activity. Pick up that instrument you’ve been dying to try. Read a new book - join a book club! Switch up your workout routines. Start a puzzle. It can be ANYTHING, just get something new a whirl!
Feng Shui it up! Switching up your room or your house and giving yourself some new ambiance can do wonders to your attitude. First, the moving of things around and decluttering your space feels AWESOME. Then, having the accomplishment of cleaning up a certain space and filling it with a new look can leave you super happy and refreshed. Doesn’t have to be anything major - maybe small changes to your car, or office, and bam, that feng shui feeling has come over you.
Give yourself space! This can be a crucial part of healing and heading to happiness when you’re down in a slump. You need to give yourself time. Recognize how you feel - meditation is a great form of relaxing. Treat yourself to a massage. Even just taking a nap. You need YOU time. Acknowledge how you feel, then quiet your mind, regroup, breathe, and you’ll start feeling that weight start lifting off your shoulders.
Hope some of these tips help you get thru the last couple months of this winter slump! If anybody else has some remedies that work well for you - please share! The more the merrier :)