11 Refreshing Ways to Banish the Winter Blues

(CREDIT: twicepix (Flickr))

Fighting the Winter Blues

The winter weather can not only make the roads a bit dangerous to drive on at times, but it can also bring down peoples' moods. Not everyone is a fan of the winter weather, and that's understandable, but that doesn't mean that you can't find ways to enjoy it. Sure, there might not be anything that you can do about the weather, but you can still keep your spirits up!

Personally, I've always loved the winter weather. Having grown up in Indiana, I've never been a stranger the snow and cold weather, but I've seen how it can bring down the moods of others. I have a friend who moved up years ago with her family from the sunny state of Florida, and still hasn't fully adjusted to her liking yet. Again, it's not for everyone, but there are ways to enjoy it.

11 Things To Do in Winter

1. Get involved in winter activities – Whether you're a beginner or very experienced, it doesn't matter, it's fun to get out there and enjoy winter activities like sledding, skiing, ice skating, or playing hockey, for example. If you're new to any of these activities, then try going with a friend who can help to show you the ropes. Also, if you're a beginner you should ease into it by heading to an area that won't be crowded, that way you're not intimidated by those who are experienced, and can just learn and enjoy yourself!

2. Have fun with the kids – Who didn't love building a snowman when they were a child? If you're like me and you have children of your own now, this is a very fun opportunity to engage with your children and have a great amount of fun during this winter weather. Building a snowman is perhaps one of the best parts about the winter weather, and it isn't something you can do year-round in most parts of the world, so take advantage of it!

3. Spend time exercising – We've all seen it, the New Year's Resolution's based around dieting better and exercising more. With snow on the ground, it's the perfect time to join a fitness club, or even do exercises at home. Just be careful running outside – it can be icy out there and your safety is extremely important.

4. Read some books or watch some movies – In my opinion, nothing is more relaxing than staying inside on a snowy or rainy day and reading a book or watching a movie. Both of these can be very relaxing (depending on the movie genre!) and can help raise your spirits in the cold weather.

5. Show your artistic side– Personally, I love to draw. It allows me to think and entrench myself in a world of creativity. While I might not be the best artist out there as I would be the first to admit, it's a great way to pass the time and to beat those winter blues.

6. Keep the house clean and tidy – With the winter weather in full swing, you likely won't be spending as much time outside as you would during the summer, so you'll have more time to dedicate to keeping your house top-notch in terms of being clean. Keep that house of yours clean and tidy, because I don't know about you, but there isn't much more that can bring my mood down than having a mess in the house.

7. Get Some Sleep – This doesn't apply to just winter, but it applies to life in general. A lack of sleep can bring down anyone's mood, so it's important to get at least eight hours of sleep each night. Do yourself a favor and get on a good sleep schedule; the last thing you want is to feel tired, groggy, and grumpy, because this won't just bring down your own mood, but it will bring down the moods of those around you.

8. Learn Something New – Is there anything that always fascinated you and you always wanted to learn more about it? Surely there is, so why not look into it more? With the internet there is so much to learn, so pick up a new hobby or interest, learn more about it, and get more involved. An activity can also consist of taking up new classes somewhere!

9. Cut out the Caffeine – Past studies have linked high intakes of caffeine to depression, and with the proverbial winter blues already being a factor, you don't need anything else bringing down your mood. With that said, cut out excessive cups of coffee, soda, or other caffeinated drinks. Any caffeinated beverage should be consumed in moderation only.

10. Stay Socializing – It's good to see your friends and family whenever you get the chance. Seeing those that you care about, and those that really care about you can be a great mood and energy booster, so why not organize a dinner with those closest to you?

11. Take a Walk – This goes back to exercising, but it doesn't hurt to get out there and take a walk. To me, it's extremely relaxing and helps me relieve stress, especially when I go with my family.

Winter isn't so bad! Sure, it might get cold and the driving can get a bit rough, but there are many ways to take advantage of the snow and have some fun with it. How do you and your family enjoy the snow and winter weather? I would love to hear from you!

Find more about the author: Kim Hart

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