Is it Spring yet? Unfortunately no. It’s still dreary and cold.  You may be fighting the winter blues. You don’t want to get out of bed. Lately you’ve been craving carbs. It’s hard to get motivated. You just want to hibernate! During this time of year, the winter blues kick in! It’s easy to isolate. But here are 10 ways to fight those winter blues:

1. Stop resisting the cold and find ways to enjoy it. Part of the blues is feeling trapped and cold. But if you think like a northerner and do fun winter things like cross country ski, play in the snow, or bundle up for a run in the cold, you embrace the cold. It’s all about attitude! Change your mindset. Engage vs. resist.
2. Tackle that indoor project that you have been thinking about but haven’t done. Maybe it’s organizing a room or closet, going through your closet to give clothes away, unpacking boxes, going through your pantry, etc. Now is the time. The sense of accomplishment will also boost your mood.
3. If it is bright outside, don’t wear sunglasses for part of the time. The eyes bring in light and help with mood regulation. And lift your shades in your home or apartment and bring in the light. Bundle up and force yourself outside.
4. Get plenty of vitamin D. The sun is a source of vitamin D. Depending on where you live, the sun may not shine too often in winter. Take vitamin D everyday to improve your mood. And if you are looking for food sources, try more swordfish, salmon, tuna, milk, yogurt, sardines, eggs, and cereals fortified with vitamin D.
5. Plan indoor fun. Maybe it’s time to host a dinner or party. Or think small get-together. Or maybe you need a comedy night playing crazy board games or watching indoor movies. Perhaps invite a few people over to play cards. This is how we survived cold Michigan winters. Lots of games and socializing to keep our spirits high.
6. Find people who are happy and engaged. Happy people are contagious. If you socialize with complainers or moody people during winter, you may start to feel the same.
7. Get out of your winter boredom and do something new. Learn a new game, take up a new hobby, practice a skill or develop a musical talent. The newness will boost your mood.
8. If you have a fireplace, sit by it and read. Brew a cup of tea and make it a winter experience. If you don’t have a fireplace, go to a local coffee shop. Read and relax or meet a friend for good conversation. The idea is to find a cozy place. Make it your go to winter place.
9. Find community events that will force you out of the house–musicals or plays, the arts or symphony. If you buy a ticket, you will go.
10. During these months of more darkness, stay in the spiritual light–Psalm 27:1 The Lord is my light and salvation. Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid, He is our anchor and hope. Boost your mood by staying spiritually strong. Read your Bible and be encouraged!