The weather is getting colder, and classes are feeling longer as November rolls on. To stay in the right mindset during this time of seasonal depression, try out these five physical and mental tips when you are feeling down.
- Say “Yes”
Late fall is the perfect time to enter your era of “yes”. Go on that weekend trip, agree to hang out with those friends you are not super close to yet, and try new things every chance you get. Do not let the cold weather ice you out from socializing and having fun after classes. Say “yes” responsibly, and those feelings of boredom will disappear.
- Join an Exercise Class
The only thing worse than going to the gym in the cold is going alone. Whether it is spin, pilates or yoga, find a class that works with your fitness goals and stick with it. The upbeat energy of a group class is unmatched with the music blaring, and everyone is dedicated to getting a good workout in.
- Phone Home
E.T. had it right: we all need to phone home sometimes. After being at college for a few months, missing home is only natural. Call your family, FaceTime your old friends and talk about how you are feeling. These people are your support system: asking them for help or just scheduling a weekly call can give you that extra push before Thanksgiving break.
- Decorate for the Season
Halloween is over, so now it’s time to look toward Thanksgiving and Christmas decorations. Put out some pumpkins, string leaves across the walls, and start thinking about your winter wonderland. It is never too early for Christmas music, and it helps put you in the perfect mindset to focus on cheery holidays instead of the bristling cold air.
- Make a List
Classes are in go mode, pushing toward Thanksgiving break at full speed. To avoid getting overwhelmed by the flurry of assignments, group projects, papers and exams, make a list of everything you have to do until break. It may look daunting at first, but the satisfaction of crossing tasks off the list will leave you fulfilled and confident that everything can and will get done in time.
November is a time when stress levels can reach an all-time high and emotions can reach an all-time low. To combat these effects of cold weather and classes, try out a couple of these tips and stay positive. Holiday breaks are right around the corner, so enjoy the remnants of fall and keep up your wellness techniques, even when the wind threatens to blow you over.