How To Stay Uplifted During The Winter Season
By: Elizabeth Koblenz, LMSW
You know Daylight Savings has arrived when it’s 4:30 PM, you peek out the window, and it is dark outside. The sun going down early can cause us to feel down and unhappy. For the next few months until spring, we may feel less motivated to finish our work or complete some of our “after-work” or “after-school” tasks as it may seem later than it really is. Although it is possible that the change in season can cause a decline in our mental health, specifically making us feel more sad and down, it is important to remain positive and do things that will keep us busy, happy, and allow us to keep our every-day routines. Here are ways you can continue to stay uplifted during the winter months:
1. Get into the winter spirit: Keep doing things that you typically would during this time such as decorating parts of your home, watching some of your favorite movies, and baking festive treats. Find activities that you can do at home, specifically ones that have an end goal. These activities can be things like a puzzle, an arts and crafts activity, or even taking on a new recipe in the kitchen. Creating a space for yourself that feels purposeful can help motivate and empower you, ultimately keeping you feeling good.
2. Make time to go outside: You can find a time every day to take a walk, or even make a plan with a family member or friend! Bundle up and prepare yourself to go outside. You can take walks, eat outside, drink hot chocolate, or simply treat yourselves to a yummy dessert (and support local businesses while you’re at it!). Going outside has so many positive benefits, some of which include moving your body, getting fresh air, and having a COVID-safe activity to participate in with a friend. Who knows, you may even find a new favorite winter activity!
3. Find a bright work space: Situate your work or school area near a light source that makes your office space feel bright. This can help make it feel easier to be able to continue your work, even as the sun sets earlier. Make sure to brighten up the room with lamps or candles. As a tip, you can even buy Christmas lights to add to the room as they add a beautiful aesthetic as well as provide light to keep the mood bright and joyous. Give it a try!
4. Take time for yourself: it is okay to feel down in the wintertime specifically during COVID-19. Remember that self-care is so important! Whether it is getting your hair done, manicure/pedicure, reading a book, baking, listening to music, facetiming with friends and family – you cannot go wrong. It might feel challenging to find motivation to take care of you when you are not feeling great. Determine short periods throughout the day where you can fit in a small self-care act for you. It is essential to listen to our bodies and minds and to take that time for yourself!
Overall, it is important to continue to find ways where we can find joy, especially during this time. We may not even have to look far – we can find happiness within ourselves and loved ones! If you are finding it hard to stay motived and uplifted during this time, please reach out to hello@upsidertherapy.com to schedule an intake appointment.