I look forward to fall and winter every year. During the summer months, I yearn for cozy sweaters, pumpkin goodies, and all the holiday activities that come with them. However, I forget that a storm cloud seems to follow me into these months. As the nights get longer, schoolwork gets more intense, and I also seem to come down with the seasonal blues.
This year, I’m determined to approach fall and winter prepared and conquer my seasonal sadness. Here’s what helps me when the colder months get me down.
- Going on Walks
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I know, I know. Everyone always tells you to go on a walk and touch some grass. It might be a generic thing to say, but I have to say the hype is justified, and regular walks have truly helped me so much.
There’s something euphoric about walking outside with a crisp breeze or sunlight streaming down, with maybe even some birds chirping in the background. No matter how down, overwhelmed, or frustrated I am, I can literally walk away and leave it behind for a while, taking a cleansing moment.
Pairing your walks with a favorite album, podcast, or audiobook also helps me disconnect for a moment and quiet any negative thoughts I may have. Next time you’re feeling blue, try going outside for a walk, even if it’s only five minutes.
- Reconnecting
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When I’m going through a rough patch, I usually end up in a doomscrolling pit of my own creation. The books around me are collecting dust. I have an art project left unfinished, but Instagram Reels are the only thing that has my attention. As much as I love being chronically online, when you’re already feeling down, it’s the last thing that will help.
In those moments, I have to physically turn off my phone to separate myself from the doomscrolling demons and try to reconnect with what I love to do, especially what I loved as a child. This could be rereading your favorite book, picking up a coloring book, or even finding something fun to bake.
I find that this grounds me and helps me to reconnect with myself whenever I’m in a funk. As a child, you knew what was up, and let’s do her proud by going back to her favorite activities.
- Weeknight Plans
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As school ramps up, it’s easy to get down in the dumps when you’re consistently overwhelmed with work. It can seem like nothing exciting is going on besides class, studying, and then going to sleep. To try to combat repetitive routines that only contribute to any seasonal depression I may be feeling, I try to be intentional about incorporating weeknight plans into my routine.
There’s no use in wasting away waiting for the weekend when we have free will and can make little moments of joy! This could look like making plans with your friend group to do a movie night, group craft, or game night.
If you’re swamped with work and can’t fit plans into your schedule, no problem! Invite friends along to what’s already incorporated into your daily routine, like workout classes or study dates at a library or cafe.
I hope these tips help you approach the colder months mindfully and help with any seasonal blues!
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