We are getting closer to that time of year when the days are shorter, there’s less sunlight, there are cooler temperatures for many, and even disruptions to our internal clocks. Some call this the “winter blues,” and this seasonal impact can sometimes have us lingering in low energy emotions and even feeling sad.

There are many symptoms that show up during this time of year that we often ignore, like:

- Brain fog
- Burnout
- Emotional eating or changes in appetite
- Difficulty concentrating
- Reduced social interaction or social withdrawal
- Feeling hopeless
- Insomnia 
- And anxiety

And in the midst of a global pandemic, there could even be an added layer of uncertainty that can feel like a catalyst to these low-frequency symptoms. That’s why keeping both our physical and mental well-being in check is of utmost importance now more than ever.

Fortunately, there are some really helpful ways you can nurture your mental strength during this time of year that I’d love to share with you! So don’t let those winter blues get you down this time around! If you need a reset on your mental well-being right now, below are 18 fun and easy ways to boost energy and reduce symptoms of winter blues.
 

1. Hydrate!

While some of us may be starting to experience colder weather, it’s very important to get plenty of H2O to not only take care of brain function, but to also improve our mood, keeping dopamine and serotonin levels healthy.
 

2. Maintain a balanced diet

Just like getting plenty of water, it’s also important to maintain a healthy, balanced diet filled with clean, nutrient-rich whole foods.
 

3. Exercise

Especially in colder weather, staying active may be more challenging, but making it a point to get exercise every day is going to keep our hearts healthy and provide that extra boost of endorphins to keep our spirits high.
 

4. Breath-work and meditation

There’s nothing quite like a nice, big, deep breath to help calm nerves, which is why breath-work and meditation work wonders on our mental strength. These practices are also incredible in maintaining healthy sleep habits.
 

5. Fresh air

Even if it’s just for a few minutes, getting a little fresh air can do the body a great deal of good, such as providing mental clarity and increased energy.
 

6. Vitamin D and light therapy

If getting outside for air every day just isn’t realistic for you, we may start to feel duped of some much-needed sunlight, which is why taking vitamin D supplements or even investing in a light therapy lamp can help illuminate this void.
 

7. Take a break

Sometimes work can become so consuming that we forget to give ourselves a break – so take one! Setting reminders to take short breaks throughout the day is going to help tremendously with mental burnout and fatigue.
 

8. Get back to your hobbies

At times, it may feel easier or more convenient to sit on the couch and watch TV after a long day, but this is a wonderful time to get back to the hobbies that truly make you feel alive!
 

9. Activate the senses

The benefits of aromatherapy on mental wellness include improved sleep quality, reduced stress levels, and lowered anxiety. So it may be time to get out your best seasonally scented candles or essential oil diffusers to experience these incredible healing properties.
 

10. Stick to a sleep schedule

Lack of sleep can, unfortunately, take a toll on our mood, so getting plenty of sleep is always going to help our mental health. But the best way to maintain mental strength and wellbeing is to set a healthy schedule for sleep (and stick to it!). So that means waking up and getting to bed at the same time each day to help keep you focused and energized throughout the day.
 

11. Ramp up your self-care regimen

Now is the perfect time to make self-care a habit – I consider it a part of my healthy routine – so that’s whatever it is that you like to do to fully relax and unwind. Think of it as your very own stress-management routine to ensure you are taking care of YOURSELF first.
 

12. Cook with seasonal foods

An exciting part of the changing season is seasonal food! So you can use this time to fill your body with healthy and delicious season-specific mood-boosting foods like pumpkins, carrots, and walnuts to name a few.
 

13. Dance (like nobody is watching!)

Not only are you getting your blood circulating, but dancing is another awesome way to keep your mood elevated, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
 

14. Rearrange your space

The monotony of life during the winter season can sometimes make us feel lethargic and even bored, so consider rearranging some furniture in your space to shake things up for the better. Sometimes all it takes is a little change to get us feeling excited about life again.
 

15. Take a drive

Sometimes a change of scenery is the right answer to overcoming feelings of fatigue and burnout, so hit the open road and see where it takes you! Plan a mini-getaway or road trip to add some new, fun, and exciting experiences to your life.
 

16. Check in on friends and family

If you are feeling the feels of winter blues, chances are the people close to you may be experiencing some form of the blues too right now. So a quick hello to see how your people are doing is a great way to boost everyone’s spirits.
 

17. Plan ahead on holiday shopping

Get a head start on the holidays by shopping for (or making) holiday gifts. You can even design your holiday cards to have ready to go when the holidays officially arrive. The gift of giving will not only put a smile on someone else’s face but yours too. :-)
 

18. Make a vision board

If you find yourself staying indoors more during this time, you can use this opportunity to set some new goals and intentions by making a vision board or a Mind Movie. One of the best ways to get through that seasonal slump is to use mindfulness and visualization to keep your vibrations high and welcome more blissful experiences.

And because I too want to make sure you are keeping your emotions vibrating high, I’ve got a very special gift for you. It’s 3 of our most popular pre-made Mind Movies along with a subliminal audio on overcoming procrastination, all completely FREE! Whether we’re truly ready for it or not, winter is coming! :-) But it doesn’t mean you have to succumb to the winter blues. So snag your free pre-made Mind Movies right here to plow through these next few months feeling motivated!