Winter seems to move at a different pace than all the other seasons. As the outdoor temperature turns colder, and the amount of daylight gets shorter, we tend to spend more time indoors. After a while, this routine can start affecting our moods in a negative way. Many people feel lethargic during the colder months of the year, which is known as having the winter blues, or sometimes classified as seasonal depression.
The winter blues can take form in different ways. Some people choose to sleep more than usual. Others feel like they lack the energy and motivation to do anything productive. The melancholy feeling can come and go, or it may linger with you for days and weeks. The longer your winter depression lasts, the more rippling effects it may have on various aspects of your life.
For those feeling the winter blues, a counselling service may offer effective coping mechanisms, which can help you to get a better grasp of your emotions. There are also certain activities that can make the winter season feel more welcoming. Check out these six different ways on how to overcome winter blues and depression:
1. Embrace the best aspects of winter.
It is totally understandable that winter might not be your favourite time of year. Many people do not enjoy the cold temperatures, the heavy snowfall, or the numerous inconveniences that emerge during this frosty season. While winter has its fair share of shortcomings, it also comes with some unique features unlike any other season.
For instance, winter is a great time to pick up on a new indoor hobby, such as cooking, painting, or you can even dabble in creative writing. This is also a fantastic season for some relaxation. You can get cozy with a warm blanket and a hot beverage, while watching your favourite movies or TV shows. The objective is to embrace the best aspects of winter, recognizing that the season has lots of opportunities to offer.
2. Enjoy the winter sports & exercises.
Even though you might feel like staying in bed to hibernate all winter long, getting some physical exercise can help to lift your spirits. You might like to go tobogganing, take a spin around the skating rink, or glide down the slopes in your skis. Participating in these winter sports will pump your body with adrenaline, and you should feel more energetic as a result.
Another benefit of winter exercise is that you get to enjoy more sunlight outside. Some believe that winter depression might be caused by a lack of exposure to the sun, since we are cooped up indoors for so long. These winter sports give us the perfect reason to go outside, have lots of fun, and enjoy the warm sunlight basking on our bodies!
3. Plan a fun activity to look forward to.
For some people, the passage of time during winter seems to move particularly slow. Since we spend less time outdoors, this creates a perception that fewer events or activities are happening in winter. Too much idle time can have a negative impact on our moods, potentially amplifying the winter blues.
If the boredom is starting to set in, start planning fun activities that you can look forward to. It can be a TV and movie marathon for this upcoming weekend, or something as simple as ordering a delicious meal for the night. The simple fact of anticipating a pleasant experience can instantly lift your spirits.
4. Eat foods that will boost your mood.
Most people crave carbohydrates when they have the winter blues. Keep in mind that carbohydrates are not only found in bread and pastas, but also in fruits and vegetables. A balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, protein, and healthy fats can boost your serotonin levels, which will help to boost your mood.
Since we don’t get as much sun exposure in the winter season, many of us lack vitamin D. This important vitamin is necessary to improve our moods, and it can even lower the risk of depression. If your winter blues are caused by a vitamin D deficiency, taking supplements daily may make a positive difference. Oily fish, red meat, and egg yolks are also common foods that contain this vitamin.
5. Meditate daily and practice mindfulness.
Practicing meditation can be a great technique to fight your winter blues. This relaxing activity is focused on putting our minds at ease, which can help to alleviate the feelings of stress and anxiety. The meditation sessions do not need to be long. Only a few minutes of meditation each day can already make you feel better.
You can also try practicing mindfulness, which means doing activities in a way that makes you fully present in the moment. For instance, try to eat more slowly and savour the delicious flavours with every bite. You can also go for a leisurely afternoon walk, stopping to enjoy the view and welcoming your thoughts as they come and go.
6. Use counselling services to overcome your winter blues.
Our counselling services are recommended for people who suffer from winter depression and anxiety. The professional counsellors can help you to develop a personal coping strategy for managing the negative thoughts and behaviours. These counselling treatments will contribute to the positive progress of improving your mental health.
Even though the winter blues usually fade away when spring returns, seeking treatment early is recommended so that you don’t feel sad for an extended time. If you need additional assistance, professional help is available at Kari Walton Counselling Services in winter and all year long.