As the colder months roll in, many of us look forward to seasonal favorites like eggnog. However, this time of year can also bring challenges that affect our energy and mood. If you’ve noticed a dip in motivation or struggled to maintain your routine, you’re not alone. Many people experience seasonal shifts, sometimes due to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
The good news is that you can reclaim your joy during these months. There are powerful strategies that can transform your winter experience into something truly enjoyable. Here’s what can help you thrive this season:
Comfort Hobby
What’s a hobby that always feels like home when you return to it? For me, it’s yoga. A slow flow in the early morning helps me ease into the day. Starting with 2-3 times a week for your comfort hobby is a good goal. This way, you can space it out across the week and avoid the pressure of having to fit it in daily.
Get Outdoors
It may be chilly some days—but I found that if you bundle up, it’s worth getting outside! I made it a habit to spend 15-30 minutes outdoors, often around midday, and it really lifted my mood. Even a short walk or sipping my tea outside on the balcony helps me feel more balanced. This small habit has been such a positive shift for me. How do you like to spend time outdoors this season?
Light Therapy
Light therapy uses bright light to help combat symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). It’s not one-size-fits-all; some people thrive on higher Lux levels for shorter periods, while others prefer lower levels for longer sessions. The angle of the light is also key, ideally mimicking natural sunlight from above at a 45-degree angle.
Research shows that light therapy can significantly improve mood, with a study indicating that 60% of participants experienced relief. I recommend the Verilux HappyLight Lucent with 10,000 Lux, UV-free LED light. I like it because it’s easy to use and has adjustable brightness, making it a great addition to any space.
Embrace Gratitude
As the days grow shorter and the nights stretch longer, we enter a season that invites us to slow down. Our perspective shapes how we experience this time of year. Which viewpoint resonates more with you?
Perspective A:
This time of year is frustrating. The long, dark hours feel endless, and the cold weather brings a gloomy mood. I can’t wait for spring to arrive.
Perspective B:
Something special about this time of year is the chance to slow down and reflect. Yes, the days are shorter, but I appreciate cozy evenings with warm tea and the beauty of nature’s changes.
Which perspective resonates more with you? I’m learning to embrace Perspective B, even when it’s challenging. Journaling in the 5-Minute Journal has been helpful because it encourages me to write down three things I’m grateful for each day. What helps you lean into gratitude?
Gather the Gang
I haven’t done this one in a while since I’m a bit of a loner nowadays, but I wanted to share it for you social butterflies out there. Spending time with friends and family can spark that internal light that the warmer months more readily provide. Here are a few cozy and fun ideas:
- Movie Night: Watch something light-hearted. You bring the popcorn, and someone else can bring the snacks!
- Paint Night: Embrace the fall or winter evening by painting a nature scene that captures the beauty of the season.
- Game Night: Gather your favorite board games or card games for a fun night of friendly competition. This can be a great way to connect and share some laughs.
Final Thoughts
When the darker months arrive, I’ve found that prioritizing self-care is crucial. Embracing gratitude, spending time outdoors, and enjoying a comforting hobby feel right for me. I’m still exploring what works best, and I’d love to hear about your go-to practices for getting through this season.
