Disclaimer: I am not a doctor or Physician; these are just tips from my personal experience. If you feel that you may harm yourself or anyone else, please contact someone at Crisistextline.org. Or text HOME to 741741 to reach a volunteer Crisis Counselor.

A lot of us start to feel down around this time of year. The holiday excitement has died down, the days are feeling shorter, less natural sunlight and life is just life’in! That’s enough to make anyone just feel down. According to newsinhealth.nih.gov Winter Blues isn’t a medical diagnosis and it typically clears up in a short amount of time. 

Unlike “Seasonal affective disorder” also known as “SAD” which is a well-defined clinical diagnosis. SAD appears on a regular basis when the weather starts to change. If you start feeling the winter blues every winter and it’s lasting longer than 4-6 weeks, consider speaking with your health care professional.

 I’ve experienced Winter Blues and here are 5 self-care tips I applied to help!

1.  Increase Fruits, Vegetables and Water 

What tastes good isn’t always good for our minds and body. While trying to combat the winter blues comfort food doesn’t always have us feeling our best. Instead, we feel sluggish, tired and cranky. On the other hand, with leafy greens, fruits and veggies, you feel light, refreshed, and energized. Try eating a full meal. Staying hydrated is also very important. A personal goal of mine is to drink a gallon of water a day.

2.  Get Fresh Air 

As long as it’s safe to go outside bundle up and take a nice walk in your neighborhood, or a trail nearby. If only for 10-15 minutes get outside and get as much fresh air as possible.

3.  Try New Activities

Sometimes we are in such a routine, we don’t have the excitement of a new challenge. By trying different activities, something you’ve never done before can be exciting. Put yourself in a different element, or a new mini adventure! Try an improv class, a new exercise class or learn to make a new dish. 

4. Remember This too Shall Pass

Stay around positive influences and focus on what you can control. The Winter Blues are temporary so during this short time, remain positive. Be mindful of the things we watch and listen to as well.

5. Talk to someone (you are not alone)

A lot of times we can feel like we are going through things alone. Which doesn’t make the winter blues any better. But you don’t have to feel like you are in it by yourself. Reach out to a therapist, a pastor, a mentor, or a health care provider. Someone you feel comfortable talking to and you know will give you sound advice. Make sure you are speaking with someone that is truly concerned with your well-being.

If you’ve tried these tips or have any others that may have helped you, please share them in the comments below!