I was driving back from Chicago this week, and it was raining, cold, and the sky was a dark gray.  Not something that cheers up your day. But here we are nearing the end of January, and many of us are facing some pretty intense wintry weather.  Last week we had days where the sky was the same color as the ground, and things looked pretty monotonous. When it gets like this, winter blues can follow.  Not only that but once we get through the holidays, our calendars are sometimes less intense, and things get a lot quieter with more time to reflect, and this can make it even worse.  

Its true that the blues are often triggered during quieter times which can make it even harder to get motivated. We may feel irritable and more tired than normal.  So if this describes you or someone you know, keep reading because I want to help cheer you up. Here are a few ideas that will help do just that.

Find something funny. Whether it’s putting on a movie you think is hilarious or listening to something that makes you laugh (I often listen to the comedian Timothy Hawkins on YouTube when I need to laugh), you need to find something you think is funny.  If your mood is low, it might be a good idea to avoid some of the more intense, sad, or disturbing things in the media (like the government shutdown). I am here to tell you that it’s vitally important to guard what you put in your mind because it has been said, “you are what you think,” is true.  

Spend time with positive people. Feeling low can make us feel like anything but company, but sometimes it’s just what is needed.  Spending time with positive people can help get us out of our own mind and focus on something else.  If they are positive, the influence helps us to be more positive. Fellowship is good for the soul.

Boost nutrition and supplement your vitamin D. Our mind can be affected by the food we put in our bodies.  After all, our brain is a physical part of our body and needs specific nutrients to function!  Vitamin D deficiency can be a big reason why you may not be feeling like yourself. When in doubt, you can talk to your doctor, and some simple blood tests can tell you if you are deficient in anything.  Taking a vitamin D to supplement the lack of sun may help boost your mood if you are suffering from the “winter blues.”

Exercise indoors or out. Studies show that even just a moderate amount of exercise for 30 minutes or so can have a big effect on our mood — even showing to improve moderate to severe depression.  Exercise boosts your mental and physical health and can help boost your energy levels, too.  If you need any suggestions on workouts, whether you are a beginner or advanced, there are many great workouts available that doesn’t require you going to a gym.  My wife Ally would love to help you with this if you need some ideas. Message me if interested.

Winter blues are no fun, but they won’t last forever.  This week, please try a regular diet of at least one of the ideas I have suggested and see if you don’t feel better.  In the meantime, let us know how we can pray for you and check out some of our other January posts for some more ideas to think about the start of the new year.

Your Virtual Life Mentor,

Doug