How Do You Stay Upbeat During the Winter?

You’d think by now we’d take it in stride. Most of us have lived through many, many seasons. And yet winter is always a hot — well, not exactly “hot” — topic. Cold front arriving? The media is all over it. Snow headed your way? Call in the press.

Granted, this is an exceptionally wintery winter, even in places that usually get a free pass. But we are no strangers to cold, blustery, snowy days. And still, I find myself checking the weather apps, watching the large flakes fall, and grimacing in the grip of an icy wind.

The flip side, of course, is the undeniable beauty — the way the sun plays off snow crystals, a cardinal posing on a barren branch, children wrapped in scarves and mittens sculpting white magic.

Yet for many, winter is deeply challenging — a season that unsettles sleep patterns, food cravings, energy levels, and overall happiness. We hear more and more about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), and SAD or not, when night arrives in the late afternoon, many of us throw in the towel (or throw on the sweatpants).

I get it. The sun descends at 4:00 pm and the pajamas call. Pull down the shades, grab a blanket, and call it a day. Right? Once in a while, as a cozy retreat, maybe — but if you let winter become a free pass to bond with the couch, you won’t be the happiest of campers.

So here is my call to action: it’s time to seize the season on our own terms. If you’re feeling the winter blues, here are some ways to reclaim your energy and lift your spirits.

Surviving and thriving this winter

• Work out — embrace the light, the endorphins, and movement that challenges you. Nothing feels better than taking care of yourself through safe, strong movement.
• Eat clean — what you put in matters. Eating clean changed my life, and I could not be more sincere about it. It affects everything, and it will help those winter sugar cravings loosen their grip.
• Give back — a day in your child’s classroom, an hour at a local soup kitchen, time with an elderly neighbor, a stranger’s coffee at the drive-thru. Genuine acts of kindness give the most wonderful boosts.
• Dress it up — say no to the sweatpants and yes to the beautiful sweater and the jeans you love. Wearing clothes you feel good in helps you meet the day with renewed spirit.
• Try something new — what’s the thing you’ve always wanted to try? Voice lessons? Dancing? Ceramics? Snowboarding? Whatever it is, just do it. Make your own light.
• Do a winter clean — no one says spring cleaning has to wait for spring. A little home project is ideal this time of year: de-clutter, make a valance, rearrange the furniture. It’s fun to change things up.
• Get outside — even if it’s cold, and even briefly. Bundle up, take a walk, and enjoy the fresh air. Winter smells good. :)
• Go south — sometimes you just need a warm getaway. Seize the day, or the week, if your budget allows.

Winter is one cool season — sorry, I had to. Fill it with inspiration, and remember that spring is only a season away.

How do you stay sane and happy through the winter months? I’d love to know.