It’s hard to believe that as I am writing this, October is already almost over. I typically love the fall season, with the beautiful colors, warm days and crisp cool mornings. I have to say, I’ve felt a bit slighted with the weather we’ve had in Minnesota this year. There’s been a lot of below normal temperatures, clouds and rain, which unfortunately can affect your mood. Many people feel a little down when they haven’t seen the sun in a few days and are stuck inside. If you live in a northern climate however, it’s bound to happen, especially with winter just around the corner.
The good news is there are many ways to uplift your mood when the seasons change. Instead of letting the weather get you down, why not try focusing on ways you can stay positive and upbeat? There are plenty of ways you can lift your spirit and beat seasonal sadness.
10 Ways To Beat Seasonal Sadness
- Get Outside—
I usually try and get outside, no matter what the weather brings. There’s something about the fresh air and being in nature that is always uplifting. Even if it is a cloud day, your body will still feel the benefits of getting natural light. Often times, it might just be enough to bring a renewed spirit to your day. - Get Moving—If you can’t get outside for a walk, think of some other way to get your body moving. Exercise in any form helps release endorphins. I am sure you’ve heard of a “runners high.” Aerobic activity especially, releases feel good endorphins. Why not head to the gym and walk on a treadmill, use some cross training equipment or something else? Many gyms provide group classes for yoga, kick boxing, cycling, zumba and more. If those activities don’t interest you, find some other activity that does. I have a mini trampoline that I like to jump on inside during the fall and winter months. Jumping always seems to bring a smile to my face. There are many options to get your body moving.
- Crank up some good music—
There’s nothing like some good music to change your outlook. Music speaks to the soul. Why not crank up some of your favorite tunes and let them take you to another place. Music triggers emotions that can help turn a sour mood into a joy-filled moment. It also can trigger happy memories and helps release those happy endorphins. - Make some cookies—
If you like to bake, why not make a batch of your favorite cookies? The smell alone will help satisfy your soul. Baking for many people is not only enjoyable, but can bring a sense of satisfaction and creativity. Baking can also promote sharing and community. I personally love to bake and share my goodies with others. It one way to spread some love. - Drink a cup of tea—
There’s something about a having cup tea that uplifts the spirits. Tea can be comforting, warming and down right healthy. Many teas contain antioxidants that help fight free radicals. They also may contain spices and herbs that have medicinal properties and may help your body fight off various illnesses. Green tea is especially beneficial to the body, but there are many options and varieties to choose from. My favorite is chai tea. I love the warming spices of cinnamon, cardamon, clove and black pepper and the comfort they bring. - Hang out with friends—
It’s a proven fact that having a strong connection to a community can help enrich your life and your mood. Healthy relationships with family, friends, co-workers and neighbors can help you feel connected. Hanging out with a good friend, or a group of friends might just be what you need to boost your mood. Friendships foster love, laughter and community, which are all important for well-being, especially when you are feeling a little out of sorts. - Attend A Yoga Class—
If you like yoga or have always wanted to give it a try, why not find a class you can attend? Yoga is invigorating and helps establish a sense of balance in your body. Yoga can also help calm your mind and provide you with a sense of peace. Many yoga poses are restorative in nature. Yoga also creates a flow of energy that can uplift your mood. Many people feel refreshed and a sense calm after participating in a a yoga class. I always feel better when I leave a yoga class and feel like I am an inch or 2 taller. - Make A Home-Cooked Meal—
Fall is a great time to prepare more home-cooked meals. Many people are indoors more and the busyness of summer is just a memory. Why not dust off one of your cookbooks, or find a recipe that sounds appealing on Pinterest? I don’t know about you, but I love Pinterest. There are so many recipes to try and so many categories. If you have been interested in finding a new Paleo recipe or maybe one that fits with the Keto diet, why not take some time to browse? Many people find cooking comforting. Others enjoy the creativity it can provide. You can also share a meal you make with friends or family and get a double boost of energy from the cooking and camaraderie. - Go to a movie—
Why not get out of the house and find a movie that interests you? I know I don’t get to the movie theater in summer months. For me, going to a movie is something I enjoy in the fall and winter. Why not take some time and do a little browsing? A comedy might be just what you need to boost your mood. If not, find something else that takes you away or to a happy place. - Invest in a sun lamp—Sun lights have become a popular item for some people that live in Northern climates. They not only simulate day light, but provide a full spectrum of natural light, which can be very beneficial. I purchased a sun lamp for my desk the other year from the Sun Box Company It is amazing what a difference 30 minutes with it on makes.
Thanks for reading!
Barb
