The darker, snowy days of winter can put a damper on anyone’s spirits, but when you head to work before the sun rises and head home after the sun has set it is especially challenging. Even if you are not prone to Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.), you can still feel blue during the winter months. If you need a pick-me-up to help you put a more positive spin on the season, try one of the tips below. They are inexpensive and sure to help you relax – no matter what your profession.
10 Ways to Beat the Winter Blues
1. Get new light bulbs.
Within the last few years, lightbulbs designed to give lighting that is close to natural sunlight have become more common. These natural light lightbulbs can be a great mood enhancer and help to eliminate the winter doldrums. In the classroom, use them in a table lamp at the small group table or in the reading nook.
2. Read a book.
Pick up a book and read a new story or an old favorite. Snowed in? Don’t worry! You can download books on your e-book reader or smart phone for free or for a small fee. The Overdrive app lets you connect with your local library and download library books right from your device.
3. Take a long bath.
Relaxing in a tub of warm water with some quiet music playing is the perfect way to unwind and de-stress. Add some epsom salts and a drop of your favorite essential oil to make the bath even more restorative.
4. Go for a walk.
Head out for a walk in the snow or chilly weather. Bundle up, put on your snow boots, and head out for a short walk. The cold air will invigorate you and lift your spirits. If you are heading out in the dark, be sure to wear reflective gear and travel with a friend.
5. Play in the snow.
If walking in the snow is not your thing, go play in it. Yes, go play. Make snow angels, have a snowball fight with your kids, make a snowman, go sledding, and reward yourself with some hot chocolate afterwards. The physical activity and snow-fun induced laughter is sure to lift your spirits.
6. Movie night.
Put a favorite movie in the DVD player, pop some fresh popcorn, and snuggle up on the couch in your favorite fluffy pants and warm sweatshirt. Give yourself permission to relax and unwind while getting lost in a favorite movie.
7. Write.
For some people, writing is very therapeutic. Write a poem, a journal entry, or start writing that story that has been mulling in your brain for years. Need some journal prompts to help get you started? Try some of these.
8. Exercise.
Studies have shown that exercise helps to boost your mood, so hop on that treadmill, put on some tunes, and get running. You will be amazed at how good you feel after even 20 minutes of walking or running. If walking or running aren’t your thing, consider an exercise DVD or even a fun dance session using Just Dance.
9. Go Out.
Your partying days may be long over, but there is nothing like going out with a couple of friends for a cup of tea or coffee, dessert, and laughter. You could even combine your outing with a painting or dance class for extra distraction and fun.
10. Dance.
Dance around the living room with your children, husband, or by yourself. Put on your favorite music and move it! If you don’t care for free form dancing, check out a dance exercise video or head to a dance class that’s on your way home from work.
By breaking up the habits of the day, you can alter your mood. Take some time to get yourself re-energized. As always, if you are experiencing feelings of deep depression, despair, or have thoughts of harming yourself or others, seek immediate help. There is nothing wrong with admitting that you need support, so don’t delay in getting it. Your mental health, just like your physical health, should be a top priority.
How do you beat the winter blues?
Share your advice and ideas below or on the Really Good Teacher Forums!
Gay Berry Baker says
I began teaching myself to crochet a few weeks ago and I love it! It has definitely helped me fight the winter blues. When I googled “crochet” I discovered several articles describing the health benefits of knitting and crocheting. The repetitive motions involved in these crafts help with depression, anxiety and pain management probably due to release of seratonin from the brain. How cool is that?!
Melissa R says
These are great ideas. I’ve been exercising and it does feel great. I’ve definitely been in the mood to dance too!
Annie says
I’ll light up my incense burner with several drops of incense oil. I’d start organizing things around the room/classroom. I mean if you keep busy physically,you’ll feel warmer and a lot better. Other than that, I’ll have one of my favorite winter drink, which is ginger soup with brown sugar. ๐ I’m usually feeling a lot better after these ‘rituals’.
Abby J says
Take a long walk in the snow with my dog. She loves it! And get some time to work on my scrapbooks!
Angie Sneeringer says
I suffer from light depletion issues in the winter months and have found that in addition to all of the great ideas in this article, my pets are another key to my happiness. Our two beagle mixes don’t take no for an answer when it comes to having fun! They force me to get active, laugh, and play the blahs away.
Crystal Inwood says
I’ve been remembering to take vitamin D the sunshine vitamin as well as embracing the coziness of winter. Sitting by a warm fire, drinking hot chocolate, and snuggling up with a good book are all wonderful ways to embrace the season. I also spend time enjoying the beauty of sparkling or falling snow, trees covered in white, and inhaling the crisp air!
Karen says
Check out your local nature centers or walking groups. I just went on a “Full Moon Walk” last week with a group in the evening. It was exciting. We learned about constellations and tryed to call in a Great Horned Owl. Simple pleasures are right at our feet.
Kathleen says
I always feel better when I reorganize and rearrange a room. I get a whole new perspective and feeling really rejuvenated!
Nichole D says
Don’t forget to add your favorite scented candle when you are taking that long warm bath! ๐ We get so busy as teachers that it’s nice to stop and relax once in a while with a nice warm bath. Add your favorite scented candle in the bathroom with you while you relax with the quiet music. That’s the perfect way to relax after a hectic week! ๐
Penny says
Planning a warm Spring Break is helping me get through the winter blues. So tired of the snow and cold but dreaming of a trip to the Caribbean.
Chris says
Getting outside to play in the snow, go for a walk, or just to sit and enjoy the fresh air. The air in the house gets kind of stale in the winter. Fresh air can reinvigorate you.