Lexi Miller, LCSW

As the days grow shorter, and it starts to get colder and darker, it is common to experience a shift in mood. With daylight savings, the early sunsets can make us feel a bit more tired, isolated and even sad. If you are starting to feel the “winter blues”, just know that you are not alone. Here are some tips to help cope during this time, and help keep your mood balanced:

1. Go outside (even if it is cold): Fresh air and natural light can be a huge mood booster, but it definitely gets harder to feel motivated to experience when it gets darker and colder out. Going outside during the day time when it is light out can help. Even a short walk around your neighborhood or standing outside during your lunch break can be helpful. Exposure to sunlight is a great way to boost serotonin and overall mood.

2. Stick to a routine: It can feel tempting to sleep in or stay snuggled up on the couch when it gets dark out. While rest can be important at times, sticking to a regular routine can help you feel motivated and prevent feeling sluggish. Try to adhere to a bedtime and set your alarm to wake up around the same time in the morning to help you stay on track. Creating structure can help hold you accountable and bring a sense of normalcy during a challenging season.  

3.        Move your body: Whether it’s going for a walk outside, moving around your apartment or work place, or booking your favorite workout class, moving your body is a great way to release endorphins and boost your mood. There are so many great activities that are offered in NYC, such as sports leagues, a variety of exercise or dance classes, and even activities that are offered indoors. Finding activities that you can participate in on a weekly or monthly basis, is a great way to hold yourself accountable to getting out, stay motivated, and do something you love.

4.        Prioritize Connections: As it gets colder out, it is common to feel more isolated, especially if your energy is low and you want to stay inside. Try reaching out to friends, even if it is a quick call or text, or even a facetime, to maintain a sense of connection. Planning low key activities with friends, such as going for a walk together, grabbing a coffee or drink, or even hanging out together at an apartment, are great opportunities to spend time with your loved ones without so much pressure to be active.  

5.        Practice self-care: When the weather gets colder and it gets darker earlier, it can often impact our overall mood and mental health. Be kind to yourself during this time, and check-in with yourself to determine what your needs are. While prioritizing connections with friends and family can be helpful, it may also be just as important to spend time focusing on yourself and doing things that bring YOU joy. This may be taking a bath or a hot shower, doing an at-home facial, or watching your favorite rom-com movie.

6.        Create a Cozy space: If you are spending most of your time indoors, why not make it a place that feels cozy and comfortable? Set the mood by adding some candles and your favorite scents. Add some blankets and pillows to create a warm and comfy set up for yourself. Creating an environment that you feel calm in can be a great way to help you look forward to your nights inside.

If you are someone that struggles during this time, remember that the “winter blues” are very common, and you are not alone. Try to not be so hard on yourself if you are feeling less social or lower energy than usual. Allow yourself to rest when you need it. It can be helpful to start with small adjustments, by trying one or two of these tips, and seeing what works best for you. Take each day one at a time and remind yourself that this period of time is temporary and shift your focus to enjoy this quieter and cozier time.