November is here, which means the sun has disappeared by merely five o’clock. This is a major cause of angst for many people, including myself, especially when you’re in college. It doesn’t just mean shorter days; it also means finals are approaching and winter is near. While I’ve met many people who appreciate the dimness of winter and the cooler temperatures, I personally am a devoted lover of summer and the sun! There’s just something so beautiful about being able to catch the sunset at seven PM while it’s still warm enough to go out in a tank top and shorts. I find that there’s a peaceful quality that comes with ending the day that way.
Unfortunately, summer has come and gone, and the winter blues might be creeping in for a lot of us. Between shorter days, looming finals, and the colder weather, it can be easy to find yourself feeling a little less motivated. While I’m certainly no expert on seasonal depression, I have a few personal tricks that help me stay sane during daylight saving time. So, here are five ways to make the most of the changing seasons!
Catching the Sun While It’s Out
It’s a wonderful thing to have an LA winter because that means the sun isn’t locked away forever. The days will definitely be shorter and the temperatures cooler, but there will still be plenty of pockets of sunshine, so keep an eye out for those moments. If it’s sunny outside and you have to study, take a break from your computer and go on a short walk to get some fresh air and natural daylight. Even if it’s just a quick stroll around campus between classes, stepping away from your screen and getting outside can make a difference.
While I’m not an expert on seasonal depression, I am certified in my own personal experiences of it, and I’ve found that whenever I get outside, my mood tends to brighten exponentially. Of course, the weather won’t always permit a walk that’s both comfortable and enjoyable. On those days when the clouds roll in and the sunshine is nowhere to be found, there are still ways to get yourself moving and feeling good.
Heading to the Gym or a Workout Class
If you have the chance, head to the gym for a quick workout on the treadmill or try some weight training. I’ve found that every time I go to the gym and exert myself enough to break even a light sweat, I leave with a head full of endorphins and an attitude rooted in a fonder appreciation for life, even if it is winter. If lifting weights or just going to the gym utterly repulses you, then there are always workout classes you could attend instead!
The Burns Recreation Center offers workout classes for students, with options ranging from mat Pilates and yoga to HIIT and even hip hop. It’s a great opportunity to try something new, get moving, and take advantage of the resources available to us as LMU students. Even if you don’t have someone to go with you, just go alone! Sometimes it’s nice to do something that’s entirely for yourself and your own well-being. Plus, you might even find a new favorite activity along the way.
Having a Me Day
Of course, not every day calls for a workout or an adventure outside. On days when the wind is strong, the rain is nonstop, and the air is biting cold, I find myself not wanting to leave my room. On days like these, it might be a good idea to have a little “me” day. Take the time to do things that make you feel good, clear your mind, and put you in a better headspace.
For some people, that might look like eating a steamy meal and watching a comfort show or movie. For others, it could mean doing skincare and finally getting around to reading that new book you’ve been meaning to pick up. Or, you could use the time to tackle those chores you’ve been putting off, like cleaning out that one junk drawer you have or washing your bedding. Whatever it looks like, having a me day should consist of doing whatever puts you in the best state of mind to navigate the colder months. Sometimes, taking care of yourself means taking the time to rest and relax, and that’s okay too!
Stay Social
One thing that can happen during the colder months is finding yourself slipping into periods of isolation. Suddenly, your routine consists of going to class, heading back to your room, and not doing much else. Whether you’re an introvert or an extrovert, we’re all still human, and I believe that humans are social creatures. We need people, even if it’s just your family or one friend. Make space to stay in touch with the people who energize you and bring you comfort during darker times.
If you’re looking for ways to get out of your room, there’s always the option of attending different club meetings or campus events. Even if it’s already mid-semester, plenty of student organizations welcome new members throughout the year. Whether it’s attending a Her Campus meeting, checking out a campus event, or finally going to that club you’ve been meaning to look into, there are so many opportunities to get out into the world and form bonds with the people around you if you just look for them! Sometimes, all it takes is putting yourself out there and being open to meeting someone new.
Romanticize the Seasons
One of my personal favorite ways to stay healthy and happy during the changing seasons is to romanticize them! Whether it’s getting excited for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or simply the arrival of winter, I always try to find something to look forward to. Even if you don’t celebrate holidays, you can still find joy in the changing seasons. Spice up your life with seasonal activities, like getting a hot cocoa with your friends or making one on your own and cozying up to a winter movie.
If you’re a lover of fashion, you can take inspiration from winter looks and get excited about a new way to dress. Bring out the sweaters, scarves, and coats you’ve been waiting to wear! Different seasons mean you get to take on different ways of being, and I think there’s something incredibly exciting and romantic about that if you allow yourself to embrace it.
At the end of the day, the changing seasons don’t have to mean putting your life on pause until summer comes around again. There is still so much to enjoy, experience, and look forward to, even when the sun sets at five. Sometimes, all it takes is a little effort to find the beauty in the season you’re in. So, instead of counting down the days until summer returns, try romanticizing the little things and making the most of the time in between.Â
MENTAL HEALTH: If you or someone you know is seeking help for mental health concerns, visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) website, or call 1-800-950-NAMI(6264). For confidential treatment referrals, visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website, or call the National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP(4357). In an emergency, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK(8255) or call 911.