Three Simple and Timeless Ways to Lift You Out of the Winter Blues

January is always hard for me. After the hype of the holidays, I’m faced with dark days and a messy, empty house. Truth be told, I feel a little empty too. I don’t know about you, but I’m struggling with feeling a little blue.
Sooo, I’m looking for ideas to move through this uncomfortable time. In the past, I would escape to Costa Rica and let the sunshine launch me into a better mood, but that isn't always possible. Escaping to some sunshine is great if you can do it — but what if you can’t?
Here are a few ways to escape to some figurative sunshine:
1. Create- Take an art class or any creative class whether that be in clay, dancing, singing, or painting. We are made to create and when we aren’t creating we feel like something is missing.
2. Join a Club- A big factor of the blues is isolation. When we make a commitment to meet with a group of like-minded people on a regular basis, it forces us to connect. There are so many different clubs available — Bible studies, book clubs, coffee clubs, trivia nights or even caving, biking, running, gardening, or hiking groups. Pick a subject that interests you and connect with a club.
For instant community that includes snacks, art, and lots of fun …
3. Exercise- I know, I know, it’s cliché and usually a setup for failure, but even getting outside for a 10-20 minute walk each day can improve your mood and health. Our bodies are meant to move and when we sit inside for too long, we feel yucky. Making a new routine of getting a little exercise each day can help you break out of that rut and feel better.
Whenever I go to Italy, I naturally lose weight — even while eating all of the pasta I want. How? Walking. Everywhere. Wanna go on the funnest weight-loss program EVER?
I know that these ideas seem simple but they have certainly helped me to break out of my winter funk. I can’t stay too sad when I’m dancing or doing a Barre 3 class. I also can’t help but laugh and feel better after my Painring for Adults class or book club with some friends. To improve your mental health, consider joining me in a class, Painting for Adults, or one of the international tours or do some other similar activity. You’ll kick those winter blues to the curb!
Ciao for now,
Elida
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