How to Cope with the Winter Blues

There are plenty of great things about winter: sipping a hot chocolate by the fire, throwing on your favorite comfy sweater, watching the snow fall… Buttt it’s not all fun and games. Cold, gray days and dropping temps can have a real effect on your mood as the lack of sunlight causes a drop in serotonin, often leading to feelings of sadness and depression. And although this may make you want to start counting down the days until spring arrives, there are steps you can take to feel better this winter, and we’re here to share them:  

Vitamin D is Key 
There’s a reason vitamin D is called the “sunshine vitamin,” and it has a little something to do with the fact that your body produces it naturally when spending time in the sun. The result is reduced stress and anxiety, a healthy immune system, and better concentration and memory. But before you decide it’s time to book a trip somewhere warm, you should know that there are other ways to get your vitamin D in. 

Consider Supplementing
Taking a supplement can be a great way to get the vitamin D you need during the winter. These Multivitamin Capsules from Rae Wellness are a good option, as they combine vitamin D with other vitamins and nutrients that help support your body on the daily (hello glowing skin and vibrant energy levels!). 

Create Healthy Routines
Routines can be a huge help during these colder months, as they can help you make time for yourself and feel more balanced on a regular basis. We recommend scheduling in some “me time” in the morning to tune into yourself and your body, whether that’s a 10 minute meditation, a journaling practice, or a few minutes to read from a new book. Try to wake up and go to sleep at the same time each day to regulate your circadian rhythm. Staying off of technology right before bed and dimming the lights can also signal to your body that it’s time to unwind. 

Move Your Body
30 to 60 minutes of activity a day can impact your mood and begin to lift those blues, and you don’t have to do a HIIT workout to start experiencing the benefits. Even if you’re doing some light stretching or trying out a YouTube yoga flow, you’re bound to notice a change. The more consistent you are, the better your results.

The winter blues are far from fun, but with these few tips, we feel confident you’ll start to feel better. After all, spring is just around the corner!