The Simple (But Totally Effective) Steps You Can Take To Beat The Winter Blues

The end of winter is still weeks away, which can mean for some of us the winter blues aren’t going away. Luckily, there are a few small but effective things you can do to beat those winter blues.

1. Take Vitamin D

The feeling for sadness can be associated with a lack of Vitamin D. Vitamin D is also called the sunshine vitamin because it is produced by natural light Understandably, during the winter months, the days are shorter and it can be harder to get exposure to natural light outside. You can boost your vitamin D levels by taking a daily supplement, eating fish or drinking fortified dairy products.

2. Exercise

Exercise without a doubt has numerous health benefits but it is particularly helpful in beating the winter blues. Exercising releases chemicals called endorphins. which are said to triggers positive feelings in the body similar to morphine. An example of this is the classic euphoric feeling runners experience called a “runner’s high.” Whether it’s hitting the gym, taking a workout class or doing an outdoor activity, find a way to incorporate fitness into your routine and you’ll find yourself feeling more energized and happy.

3. Listen To Music

Music can have a profound effect on how we feel. In a 2013 study at the University of Missouri, researchers determined that upbeat and cheerful music played a role in improving mood and aiding in positive feelings of happiness. So whenever you feel down, just blast some upbeat music and feel the dreadful winter blues fade away.

4. Volunteer

The holidays might be long gone but that spirit of giving doesn’t have to be seasonal. Helping others is always a rewarding experience and it doesn’t always mean giving money. Volunteering is just as impactful and with the current political trends, there’s never been a more momentous time to get involved with the causes and organizations that you believe in.

5. Value Experiences Over Things

While you might feel momentarily happy when you buy materialistic things, that feeling itself is fleeting. A better way to guarantee long-term happiness is to value experiences. So instead of buying the latest or trendiest things, consider spending that money on activities and travel particularly with loved ones and the people that matter the most to you. After all, you are the sum of your own life choices and you’ll feel more connected with the world when you choose to create memories and value experiences.