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Tips To Beat The Winter Blues

Do the chilly, gloomy days of winter make you want to curl up under the covers and hibernate inside until spring? You’re not alone. To combat this, there are a few ways to give yourself a little boost during the colder months. From getting outside, to thinking consciously about what you eat — here are four tips to beat the winter blues.

Soak up some sunshine

For the people who commute in the dark, spend all day inside, and then go home when it’s dark — you’re bound to experience seasonal sadness. That’s why getting fresh air and soaking up some sunshine is so important to boost your mood. You should also make sure that your home is getting in as much sunlight as possible. Keep curtains open, spend your time in rooms with the most light, and consider moving furniture closer to windows. Just 15 minutes a day in the sunshine can boost Vitamin D levels, improve your mood, focus, and lower stress levels. And if you really can’t…

Become a plant parent

With shorter days, longer nights, and the cold keeping you inside, indoor gardening can bring mood-boosting nature into your own space. Even if you don’t consider yourself a plant person, taking on even one as part of your self-care routine provides benefits in a number of ways. Being around plants lowers stress and helps combat anxiety and depression. Plants improve physical health too, reducing blood pressure and improving indoor air quality as they convert the carbon dioxide you exhale back into the oxygen you breathe.

Cuddle your furry friends

Your pet pals are the ultimate mood boosters and can make even the gloomiest days happier. Just being close to them releases oxytocin into your bloodstream, which makes you feel relaxed and happy. You can get them some new toys, teach them new tricks, or just play and cuddle with them for longer. All your pets need is your love and attention, and they’ll be even more eager to please you when they notice all the extra playtime they’re getting. It’s easy, it’s free, and it feels great for humans and animals alike.

Eat healthily

While a little chocolate can help alleviate anxiety — too many sweets, processed foods, and refined carbohydrates can cause dips in your energy levels and overall mood. Try to focus on omega-3 rich foods like salmon and walnuts, leafy greens, whole grains, and lean meats. Balance your craving for pasta and potatoes with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables to ensure that you are receiving the nutrients you need to overcome those winter woes. A healthy diet will boost your mood, give you more energy, and help to maintain your weight.