The January Blues are here and it’s hitting me hard this year. Winter, with its shorter days and colder temperatures, can often bring about feelings of sadness and super low energy.
I’ve been on the hunt to try things to help combat this and wanted to share what I’ve been doing.
How To Kick The January Blues
Here are a few of the strategies I just started implementing to combat those nasty winter blues.
No Resolutions: I’m not against these, per se, but I’m not for it if you’re struggling with the winter blues. This is the time to cut yourself slack and focus more on self care and less on checking off a list of goals. No resolutions for me this year, and I like it that way.
Fun Idea – I saw someone on TikTok discussing fun resolutions that are easy and silly, like petting 100 cats in the year 2024. Something like that that would bring you joy might be a fun idea.
Light Therapy: Lack of sunlight during winter can disrupt our body’s internal clock, leading to mood changes. I recently bought a Happy Light on Amazon because spending time near these lamps for 20-30 minutes each day can help alleviate symptoms.
I’m rotating this from each of my kids rooms and then to mine so we all are getting some light therapy.
Exercise: I know, exercise is the last thing you want to do when you feel down. But it’s exactly what we need. Engaging in physical activity releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood lifters.
I’ve begun doing very light exercise for no other reason than to combat the January blues. Releasing myself from the idea of seeing any kind of fitness “results” gives me the ability to simply move my body for the sake of movement only.
Go outside, even if it’s cold: Fresh air is helpful for all sorts of reasons, but for the winter blues, I’m focused on the fact that it stimulates feel-good endorphins that reduce stress.
Even if it’s just for a few minutes, a little is better than nothing.
Hygge: If you haven’t heard of Hygge, it is a Danish concept of making your surroundings comfortable and inviting. Adding lots of warm lighting, blankets, and candles can help youyou enjoy can create a more positive atmosphere.
Music: Great music that makes you happy is good for the soul. I suggest many Taylor Swift dance parties to combat the January blues.
Vitamin D: I implemented this a few months ago when blood work indicated this was something I’m lacking. A little extra vitamin D in the form of a supplement is helpful when you aren’t getting much (if any) from the sun in the winter.
Remember, everyone’s experience with winter blues or seasonal depression is unique. Finding a combination of strategies that work for you is key.
Prioritizing self-care and being proactive in managing symptoms can make a significant difference in navigating the challenges that come with this time of year.
If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to seek help and support.
Liz is a just a mom trying to keep it real about how little she sleeps, how often she gets puked on and how much she loves them. You can find her here every day writing about real-mom moments.
Leave a Reply