Build a Routine That Lifts Your Spirits

I didn’t know about the winter blues, let alone how to cope until a few years ago. I don’t know about you, but I didn’t grow up with all four season. My first year of winter blues… sucked. But the following year I learned what worked and what didn’t. I found that building a winter routine was key to coping with winter blues. Below are things that I implemented in my routine.

1. Become a Morning Person

I know… but don’t shoot the messenger. Growing up, I was never the first one up in my household and I definitely didn’t wake up with a pep in my step. However, I truly believe anyone can become a morning person if they practice.

• Wake up early: Try getting into a schedule to regulate your circadian rhythm. I’m telling you the truth- when I began waking up at the same time every day my mood increased and I looked forward to waking up early. I wake up at 5am everyday now.
• Hydrate and Nourish: Drink a glass of water BEFORE caffeine. Even your metabolism needs time to wake up. Eat a balanced, healthy breakfast. If you feed your body well, it will feel well.
• Light exposure: The sun sets early during the winter season but that means the sun rises earlier! Score! If possible, go outside and get some sun in first thing- this helps boost serotonin. If it’s too dark where you live, try light therapy.

2. Get Movement in!

This is probably one of the most important on this list. Get your body moving! Even a short walk is proven to increase your mood and releases endorphins. When I lived downtown, I would walk my skywalks to move my body. Friends and I would play indoor pickleball too!

• Go for a walk
• Lift
• Play a sport/activity/game
• Medication/Yoga

3. Be Social

It’s so important to stay connected with the people around you! I find myself wanting to stay at home too sometimes because it’s warm and I don’t have to brave the cold. But, it’s so important for you to get out outside your four walls and be around people.

• Try indoor pickleball with friends
• Get fun drinks with friends
• Go snowboarding, sledding or ice skating with friends
• Have a home game night
• Host a girls night

We are social creatures so be social!

4. Limit Screen Time

It’s easy to relax in your nice warm bed and scroll through your phone endlessly. Do not allow yourself to doom scroll. During the winter time, screen time increases because people are at home. I know you are aware of this already, but being on your phone is one of the worst things you can do for your mental health. So stay off your phone as much as possible.

4. Find a Hobby

Instead of doom scrolling on your phone, try picking up a new hobby! Last year, I learned how to crochet. This year, I think I’m going to try painting. It’s a way for you to be creative and it gives your something to do.