As much as I love December, I find myself getting into a psychological funk. With the change in time, colder weather, darker nights, and more time with my own thoughts, I start to feel lonely or gloomy. Here are some tips from my own personal experience to brightening up the winter blues.
Exercise - The human body wants to move, feel productive and accomplish. The easiest way to get out of a funk is to take your body through a workout to release endorphins and regulated your mood. Here are two essential pieces of equipment I have at home for a quick and effective metabolic workout when I do not have time for the gym.
TRX for full body workouts. It’s easy to set up without putting marks on your walls. Deals with your body weight and very safe to use.
Kettlebells are a powerful tool to counter all the sitting we do. WIll last a lifetime as long as it’s a quality one like this one. Very minimal but EXTREMELY effective
Get enough Vitamin D. Especially if you live above the coastal line, it is very difficult to obtain sufficient sunlight due to the lack of sun and short days. With that being said, look to get some sunlight at least 15 minutes a day, eat Vitamin D foods (Whole and fortified), and take a Vitamin D supplement during this time of year. Here is an awesome Vitamin D supplement I’ve been using for a very long time.
Socialize with friends & family. I cannot stress this enough. Exercise is great, but community is greater. Having a sense of belonging and being able to connect with others tends to be forgotten when you are trying to live a healthy lifestyle.
Brighten up the room
Brighter lighting or different colors within the room can definitely help alter the mood.
Aside from painting your walls, getting decor, or sheets, here is an actual light specifically for winter depression
Aromatherapy
The effects of essential oils to the mind body and spirit have been well documented. I personally have this Diffuser at home and it works wonders.
Stay warm my friends :)