Everyone knows the January to March stretch comes with challenges. Less sunlight, shorter days, and colder temperatures coalesce into Boston’s infamous winter dreariness, plaguing people with the winter blues.
Despite its poor reputation, there are many hidden advantages to this time of year. Here’s a guide to not falling victim to the winter blues this year.
Establish a Strong Routine
One of the easiest ways to fall into a rut during the winter is abandoning your routine. This time of the year is arguably the most important time to stick to a regimented schedule.
Continue making time for yourself and the things you enjoy, but make sure your everyday routine stays consistent. Early sunsets might make you want to turn in around 4 p.m., but a strong, consistent routine will boost your mood and support both your physical and mental health during these cold, dark months.
Build Healthy Habits
Some of the most beneficial bulwarks against the winter blues are strong health and wellness habits. Now is certainly not the time to neglect your physical and mental well-being. Instead, it’s time to remember your daily supplements, move your body each day, and focus on your wellness.
If you’re someone who struggles because of a lack of sunlight during the winter, you’re not alone. A great way to get in your daily vitamin D is through UV lights, which can be found on Amazon or Best Buy. These speciality lamps work to mimic natural sunlight to improve sleep, mood, and energy.
If lamps aren’t your thing, consider incorporating essential oils into your routine. Eucalyptus, peppermint, and lavender help calm the body and support the immune system.
Pick a New Hobby
One way to bring yourself joy this winter is to fall in love with a new hobby or activity. Whether puzzles, reading, or learning a new language, anything that stimulates your mind will help shield you from the winter blues.
With the holiday season coming to an end, many people will find themselves with more time on their hands. This is the perfect opportunity to finally pick up a hobby you’ve always wanted to try. Use what’s left of the post-New Year’s motivation to find a new, fulfilling activity.
Learn to Love the Winter
There’s a famous saying, “If you can’t beat them, join them.” One of the best ways to conquer the winter blues is to start loving the winter.
Find positive aspects of the seasonal chill and try looking forward to them. Maybe that means celebrating the snow and going for a walk around campus. Or maybe you embrace the 4 p.m. sunset time and establish a night routine that you’re excited to accomplish each night.
Whatever your tactic might be, it’s crucial to learn to appreciate this time of year.
Plan a Day Trip
In Boston, we’re only a train ride away from some of the best spots in New England. If your winter season feels mundane and never-ending, consider leaving town, even if it’s only for a few hours.
There are plenty of amazing places nearby, including Providence, Newport, and Salem. If you’re looking for coastal towns with amazing winter vibes, consider day tripping to Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, or even Portland, Maine.
Sometimes all we need to feel back to normal is a break from our typical environments. So go explore a new place, try new food, and mentally reset.
Aim to Get Outside Daily
The worst thing you can do this winter is stay holed up inside all day long. Even if temperatures are in the negatives and wind tunnels lurk around each corner, it’s crucial to make an effort to be outside and surrounded by fresh air.
Spending time outside can reduce winter blues by reducing stress, regulating sleep, and improving mood. While it’s important to go outside year-round, people tend to neglect this during the winter. Setting aside time may feel difficult, but it will pay off with a better and brighter winter season.
