The days are getting shorter, the weather outside is frightful, many of us experience the “winter blues”. Collins Dictionary defines the winter blues “as a feeling of depression or deep unhappiness associated with experiencing the cold and darkness of winter.” The blues generally start late Fall into early Winter and last until Spring.

So, what is one to do? Here are some tips to help guide us through this “hibernation period”.
· Practice good sleep habits; try to stick to a consistent sleep schedule
· Get natural sunlight in the morning for better sleep and mood. According to Everyday Health, “Natural sunlight plays a key role in regulating mood and sleep-wake cycles. In particular, getting sunlight first thing in the morning helps tell your body it’s morning and it’s time to be awake…”
· Incorporating exercise can also improve sleep and mood. “Exercise releases natural feel-good chemicals in your brain that can boost your sense of well-being and helps distract you from negative thoughts that may dampen your mood,” according to Mayo Clinic.
· Use light therapy, I tend to light more candles in the Fall and Winter, flameless candles too can give you that cozy feeling when it’s cold outside
· Consider baking. I bake more during this time, it makes the house smell nice and welcoming. The heat of the oven helps warm the house. Here’s an extra tip when you are done baking, turn off the oven and leave the oven door open. Might as well use that energy to help warm your house!
· Catch up on books you want to read or shows you want to binge.

What do you like to do to help cope with the colder months ahead?