Seasonal Blues

Fall and winter are seasons that most people get excited about. The foliage changes all around you, you can hear the crunch of leaves as you step on the ground, the fall air, the first snowfall, curling up with a blanket and cocoa watching a movie, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years. There are so many things to be happy about during this time of the year, but for some people it's a little harder.

When daylight savings ends and we have to change our clocks back, the days can become more gloomy for some. The sun sets at time that's earlier than our bodies are used to, leaving people feeling swallowed by darkness. No one wants to be feeling down in the dumps for a whole season or two, so here are some ways to keep your heart, mind, and soul happy when you're feeling the seasonal blues.

1. Go outside! Even though it can be cold outside, that doesn't mean you can't emerge from your warm cozy house. Grab a coat and a scarf, slip on your fuzzy boots, and take a walk. The fall/winter sun is still great to soak up and the brisk air will wake you up.
2. Stay warm! If you're feeling cold, put on another layer like a sweater or vest. Grab your favorite snuggly blanket and sit on the couch with the fireplace going. Eat some warm food and drink something like hot tea or cocoa to keep your body temperature up.
3. Start a new hobby! This doesn't have to be anything drastic but just something that's new to you. It could be journaling, knitting, learning to play a card game, or even joining a gym.
4. Socialize! Surrounding yourself with people that you love and love you back is a great way to lift your spirit. Any kind of interaction whether it be face-to-face or calling someone you haven't talked to in a while.
5. Take a nap! Sometimes your body and mind just need a break, and it's perfectly okay to give it one. Set an alarm for the amount of time you want to sleep for and then drift off into slumber.
6. Play a board game! Get your family or friends together and pick a board game you all want to play or a puzzle you want to do. It's important to take the time to get together without electronics and just live in the moment with the ones you appreciate.
7. Do something you love! It can be anything from watching a movie with your friends while eating Ben&Jerry's ice cream to going rollerskating or doing a DIY craft. As long as you're doing an activity that brings your pure joy and makes you happy.