Tips to Beat the Winter Blues

By Jem Hanan, Contributing Blogger

With the cold now settling into our bones and the holidays now sadly behind us, you may be feeling what is colloquially known as the winter blues. Perhaps a bit more sluggish, a bit less motivated, and desperate for some vitamin C. Although we can’t chase away the cold, we do have a few wellness tips to make the winter slump more manageable and keep your spirits up until springtime. Keep reading for some wellness practices you can implement in your winter day-to-day!

1. Get Outside Daily

Although the weather outside may be frightful and the fire is so delightful, even just a burst of fresh air and taking in some natural light is a game changer when it comes to boosting your mood. You can take a walk, or even just sit outside with a hot coffee or tea, bundled up in a coat and scarf. You’d be surprised at how much just a few minutes outside can make you feel refreshed. 

2. Prioritize Your Sleep

Winter is an important time to listen to your body's circadian rhythm. Having an inconsistent sleep schedule will do a number on your health and how you feel. To encourage a natural and consistent sleep schedule, implement a bedtime routine (preferably one that doesn’t include blue light) such as drinking a hot herbal tea or reading a book you’ve been meaning to get to. You might find yourself enjoying the ritual so much you carry it over into the warmer months. 

3. Engage in Social Connections

The cold weather makes anyone less inclined to socialize. It is so much easier to simply stay at home, maybe send an occasional text here or there, before entering total social hibernation. However, it is so important to make the effort to see friends and family, in-person or virtually. Schedule regular coffee dates or game nights with some people you love; use virtual meeting spaces to connect with those who don’t live in your area; join a local class or volunteer group to meet new people in your neighborhood. Whatever it may be, you will leave in higher spirits than you arrived in. 

4. Warm Up with Movement

Wintertime can sometimes make you feel extra groggy when you wake up, starting your day off on a less-than-stellar note. You can easily combat this with some light movement in the morning. Try some morning stretching or light cardio to shake off the early-morning daze. Or, if you’re looking for something a bit more intense, try some winter-friendly activities like indoor climbing or swimming. Winter is your excuse to try something new!

5. Savor Comfort Foods

Chilly weather is the perfect excuse to enjoy your favorite nutrient-rich comfort food and drinks. Hearty soups and steaming stews with in-season vegetables are perfect after a cold day. Warm beverages like teas can be enjoyed at any time of the day and will warm up your body and soul. You can also indulge in some tasty treats like hot cocoa or s’mores to embrace the wintery vibes.

6. Plan Small Adventures

A great way to combat the winter blues is to give yourself something to look forward to. Planning  a weekend getaway, a day trip, or even trying a new local cafe or museum will get you feeling excited about your week and lift your mood. You can even get some friends involved to share your adventures! 

Winter may come with its challenges, but it also offers an opportunity to slow down, reflect, and prioritize your well-being. By incorporating small, intentional changes into your routine—whether it’s staying active, connecting with loved ones, or creating cozy, uplifting spaces—you can navigate the season with greater ease. Prioritizing your wellness now can give you the energy and resilience you need to meet your goals and make the most of the year ahead.