The winter blues are officially here: dark, colder weather, shorter days, gray skies… and frankly, these months can make you want to curl up and stay cozy, or adventure off on a sunny getaway. Many experience feeling more tired and sad than usual, not getting enough sunlight, gaining a few pounds, the list goes on.

However, these months don’t have to be known as the down time of year any longer! 

Try These Top 5 Tips to Beat the Winter Months… 

1. Expose Yourself to the Sun

Getting enough Vitamin D is always one of the best mood lifters. However, this winter, don’t only rely on just supplementing Vitamin D; actually aim to get at least 30-60 minutes of sunshine a day! Research shows early morning sunlight, even in the cold temperatures, can be the ultimate immunity boost, protecting you from allergies, strengthening your bones & muscles, and supporting mood elevation. 

2. Have a Regular Exercise Routine

You may find the winter months comforting and perfect for curling up & hibernating, but studies show great physical & mental benefits of keeping up with your workout routine! No matter what your exercise of choice is or you’d like to switch it up for the winter months, nothing releases endorphins & improves your mood better than breaking a sweat! 

3. Do Something Social Each Week

Believe it or not, spending quality time with loved ones plays a huge role in wellness. The winter months after all the holiday festivities can feel quite long and dark for many. Keeping up with your social routine, seeing friends and family, brings joy & emotional connection into life, while supporting you to stay active and avoid isolation. Try to do at least one social activity per week to get you up and out!

4. Try Light Therapy

These months for many may mean feeling tired and sleeping more than usual. Similar to getting sun daily, light therapy mimics outdoor light. By using light therapy, it can actually trick the body into thinking it’s a warmer month and causes the body to release serotonin. 

There are so many different light boxes on the market to choose from, but most can be kept in a convenient place on your desk, kitchen island, bathroom sinks, etc. 

5.  Add Aromatherapy to Your Routine

Bring the aromas of the warmth to your senses with essential oils! Aromatherapy is the simple idea of using scents as a form of therapy. Studies have shown that aromatherapy can provide relief from the winter blues, enhance your mood, improve sleep, and even reduce bodily pains. Oils can be inhaled directly or using a diffuser, and can also be applied onto the skin or mixed with lotions. 

Scents recommended during the winter include: cinnamon, clove, ginger, orange, peppermint and sandalwood. 

Hopefully, these five ideas bring some light & inspiration to you for surviving the cold and dreary winter months! Let us know which of these mood lifters you’ll be trying and share with us in the comments your favorite way to release some endorphins in the wintertime!