The holidays are over! Although the stress of gift giving, money spending and long travel decreases, this seems to be the time the winter blues start creeping in.

The let down of the holidays can be gloomy; for those of us with 9:00 to 5:00 jobs, daylight often ceases to exist. Depending on where you live, the frigid cold can be very discouraging. Less sunlight, less exercise and more couch time often leads to seasonal depression… the attack of the winter blues.

Feeling crammed in your apartment? Sleeping more, bored, restless, endlessly daydreaming and impatient? Try to fight the symptoms of the winter blues proactively. Be aware of the symptoms and don’t let yourself fall into the trap. Below are a few tips to help you stay lively and upbeat through the next few months!

Going Green

Even the darkest room can be brought to life with a little green! Add a few plants that grow well in little sunlight. Bamboo is a great plant which grows quickly and involves very simple care. A Lucky Bamboo plant would make a great surprise gift for a friend fighting the winter blues, and brightening another’s day is always a feel good deed.

Relaxation Routine

After a long day, television and takeout seem to go hand in hand. Try making a habit of turning on some light music, burning some incense, going to the gym, reading a book or any other activity which makes you feel good. By engaging your senses, body and mind, you will feel energized after a long day rather than lethargic.

Veggies & Vitamins

Healthy eating isn’t always the easiest decision to make. It takes a little extra preparation and self-control, but fueling your body with proper nutrients and minerals will undoubtedly make you feel better about yourself and give you natural energy.

Outdoor Owl

So it might be dark outside, but it will still be beneficial for you to get some fresh air and exercise. Even a short walk around your apartment complex will help boost your endorphins and take you out of those winter blues. Hook up with a walking buddy or borrow your neighbor’s dog to hold yourself accountable and create a routine.

Vegas Vacation

There is nothing like a weekend away to boost your mood. Even if you don’t have the cash to spend in Vegas or Hawaii, a few days at a good friend or relative’s home can help break the monotony of the winter slump. Even if you aren’t wearing shorts, a place that gets some sunshine is always a nice retreat. No time off? Plan a day or even just an evening where you do something out of the ordinary: bowling, ice skating, yoga, cooking class… Any adventure out of the ordinary is sure to lift your spirits!

Margarita Mixer

Hold a “Winter Blues” party! Decorate your apartment in an island theme, hand out flower leis and ask your guests to wear outrageous Hawaiian shirts. Good music, good drinks and good company doesn’t have to be expensive, and can really lighten everyone’s spirits and give you all something to look forward to.

*****

Good luck fighting the winter blues this season. I wish you cheer and energy in finding new hobbies, activities and goals to brighten your day and everyone around you!