10 Ways to Beat the Winter Blues
Does Daylight Savings have you down? You’re not alone! You may have heard of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression that affects 5% of American adults in the winter months. But did you know that 10-20% of adults experience a milder form of seasonal depression nicknamed the “winter blues”? That’s right, that sluggish feeling you get when days are shorter and the weather are colder just might be clinical. But don’t despair, we put together a list of activities guaranteed to get you out of bed and back into the world.
1. See a Meteor Shower
Clear winter nights are perfect for viewing constellations and meteor showers. According to the American Meteor Society, the Quandrantids is a meteor shower that will be active until January 16, and are best seen from the northern hemisphere. Pack a picnic blanket, bundle up, and get stargazing.
2. Browse a Winter Market
‘Tis the season for gifts and cheer! Treat yourself to a hot chocolate and peruse artisan prints and tchotchkes. Whether you’re a holiday devotee or a self-professed Scrooge, you’re bound to find something fun at a winter market near you.
3. Join a Running Club
The colder the weather the harder it is to find motivation to exercise. Joining a running club is a great way to stay active, make friends, and spend time outdoors. Most clubs shake up timing, routes, and distances from week to week, so find a good fit and chase that runner’s high.
4. Go Ice Skating or Sledding
Not a runner? Give ice skating or sledding a try! Invite your friends to join you for a free skate at an indoor or outdoor rink. On sunny snowy days, you can trade your skates for sleds (or one of these DIY options) and race your friends downhill.
5. DIY Gifts
Who doesn’t appreciate a handmade gift? Jewelry. Art. Photo Albums. Recipe Kits. Scarves and Hats. Even though the holidays are over, it’s not too late to get crafty and creative. Who doesn’t love receiving an unexpected gift? Remember, it’s the thought that counts!
6. Visit an Art Museum
Add some color to your day by visiting an art museum. Wander the galleries and take your time viewing each piece. Pro tip: bring a sketchpad and pencil so you can relax and draw what you see.
7. Host a Movie Marathon
Dress up this classic snow day activity by inviting your friends over for hot cider, snacks, and a theater-worthy movie marathon! Pick a theme (holiday rom-coms, campy horror films, every single Twilight movie, etc.) and enjoy a cozy night in.
8. See a Play
There’s something whimsical about seeing a play or ballet in the winter months. Scour the internet for a local production of The Nutcracker or a similar winter-themed play for a fun night at the theater.
9. Start a Book Club for Two
Have you ever signed up for a book club, gotten overwhelmed, and dropped out? Try trading favorite books with a friend or family member who loves to read and then get together to discuss. This one is a FaceTime-friendly way to exercise your brain and keep up with loved ones near or far away.
10. Build a Snowman
Can you remember the last time you built a snowman? Wait for the snow to stick, grab a hat and a carrot, and get to work in your yard or a nearby park. You’ll make passers by smile for days and if a snowball fight breaks out, all the better!