As the weather gets cooler and people start to hunker down, it’s easy to fall into a bit of a funk. Maybe not right away, but as the winter rolls on you can feel your energy start to slip. It happens to a lot of us. But there are some pretty easy (and fun) ways to get yourself back in the game and out of your funk.
(1) Plan a Trip:
Even if you’re not ready or able to travel yet, it’s fun to get the ball rolling on an upcoming vacation. But if you happen to have a little time and money stashed aside, this is exactly what that rainy day fund should be spent on … yourself! A quick night or two away can make a big difference in your outlook and energy levels.
(2) Put on Some Upbeat Music:
You don’t have to dance, but put on some fun music. Have it on in the background while you look at a magazine or surf the web. I’ll bet that within 20 minutes you’ll be singing along … and yep, you will probably even dance. BONUS!
(3) Practice Gratitude:
It’s not corny once you get used to it. Honestly, there is no more powerful emotion than gratitude to lift your spirits. To start with, you have a roof over your head and shoes on your feet, but as you continue to practice gratitude you’ll start to notice the little things that make each day special.
(4) Read a Good Book:
After all, the best time of year to cuddle up with a good book and a warm blanket is in the winter. Choose a book that you think will counteract whatever negative feelings you’re having. If you’re feeling blue, grab a David Sedaris book or if you’re feeling disconnected, something nostalgic may help fill that void.
(5) Get Outside:
OK, OK, if it’s really THAT cold, you can pass on this one. But even if it’s really brisk but bearable, get outside! Now! It’s a proven fact that being in nature and outdoors has huge benefits on our emotional states and even on our physiology.
(6) Exercise:
A quick yoga flow or a walk around the block just really changes the way you feel. You know this from past experience … but when you’re feeling a bit blue, it’s one of those things that you just don’t want to do. Tap into that experience and let yourself know that once you get going it’ll be easy and it’s guaranteed to lift your spirits!
(7) Try to Make Space for The Feelings:
This one is hard but if you can hone this skill it will become a very handy tool for life. Instead of pushing the feelings away, give them some space to just be there … with you. It will be uncomfortable for a bit, but remind yourself that as humans, we are supposed to have feelings. It’s our job to feel these feelings so they can relay their message to us. So cut yourself some slack and be OK with feeling not OK for a while.
