Tips to Avoid the Winter Blues

It’s that time of year, a Midwest winter. While Chicago is stunning year round, it’s easy to get the ‘winter blues’ with frigid temps, grey skies, darker mornings and evenings, and spending more time indoors. Don’t worry, follow the tips and tricks below and you’ll breeze through the season!

1. Exercise

Believe it or not, studies show that exercise is a natural antidepressant and can aid in fighting mild-to-moderate depression! Exercise releases endorphins, which are hormones that reduce pain and increase feelings of well-being. In addition, exercise increases your metabolism, which helps improve your energy levels!

2. Vitamin D and Light Therapy

During our dark and snowy Midwest winters, we get less of the mood-boosting help of sunlight, which may set the stage for the winter blues. Sunlight is a source of Vitamin D, a nutrient linked to sharper thinking and better emotional health. Give yourself every opportunity for daylight, such as placing exercise equipment or your work area near a window or dressing warm and going for a nice walk. On days when getting sun isn't an option, taking a Vitamin D supplement is an option! Check with your doctor about whether a vitamin D supplement is right for you. Another great option is light therapy! Lamps that simulate natural light can help seasonal depression, check out this one from Amazon!

3. Stimulate Your Senses

Many people find that adding bright colors to their home, or even their nails, can improve their outlook on life no matter the season. You can incorporate colors that bring you joy to your Millie on Michigan home by adding some fun throw pillows, creating a gallery wall with bright prints, or purchasing some fresh flowers to display. Scents can also add to your feeling of well-being, try peppermint essential oil or some other energizing scent.

4. Funny Movies

When all else fails, queue up a stream of laugh-out-loud films! Experts believe that laughter actually stimulates processes in your brain that counter depressive symptoms. And since chuckling is downright contagious, you can invite a few pals over to share the popcorn.