10 Ways to Get Your Mojo Back When You Feel Down This Winter
For when it's not actually the most wonderful time of the year
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Learn Something New
Last year, I signed up for a photography class and a business course, which meant I had to leave the house at least twice a week. This year, I'm going to join a hiking group and I'm taking a knitting class. Find something you've always wanted to try and make this the season you try it. It motivates you to learn and it helps you meet people you might otherwise never know.
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Know the Difference Between Recharging and Isolation
As an introvert, I should throw this in here: I am positively drained by long-term contact with lots of people. I have to be alone for a while just to feel normal again. That said, there's a point where I know I feel better and I'm just using "introvert" as a cover for depression. I don't have to talk to anyone, but just a walk to the corner coffee shop seems to help.
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Plan Time With Family and Friends
I try to anticipate feeling less motivated through the winter months, so I plan at least one outing every week with a friend or with family. I usually ask friends to meet me at an exercise class before brunch so I can call it multitasking, but sometimes it's a movie night at a friend's place or mine. Bonus round: going out dancing with friends or family counts as time outside the house, staying warm AND exercise.
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Eat Better
The snuggle is real, and there is nothing winter calls for more than cozying up on the couch with a pile of warm carbohydrates and a TV remote. But healthy food boosts energy, which means a better chance of elevated mood. So, throw veggies and fruit in that mix. There are plenty of ways to sneak healthy ingredients into comfort food, so take this time to explore your inner "Iron Chef." Also, watch the mood-altering beverages: too much alcohol can make depression worse; too much caffeine can spike anxiety.
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Lower Your Stress Levels
Social obligations, financial stress, work, money -- there are plenty of things that can send you back to bed when it all gets to be too much. Stress and depression are a tough mix, so control what you can: cancel what you can, plan activities that bring you joy, go on a budget, call debtors to make a payment plan, break off toxic relationships. Your happiness is important. Protect it.
