I’m not trying to be bummer city but man, winter can be tough.

It’s usually around this time of year that I get over the honeymoon period after time off from the holidays and start getting a little bummed out that it’s still freezing outside. It’s grey, and cold, and I’m still trudging to work all day everyday, so around this time I have to remind myself of ways to kick my winter woes to the curb. Thinking warm thoughts can only do so much for a gal, so here are a few of the best ways I’ve found success in beating the winter blues.

1. Take Vitamin D, it actually works!

For real though, Vitamin D is my saving grace around this time of year. With less hours in the day to soak up some rays, your body could really use a boost Vitamin D to boost your mood actually make you happier – woot woot! I take one every morning during the colder months to make myself feel a little better.

2. Exercise, for real though. 

Exercising is always easier in the summer, but you really need to get your butt in gear in the winter too! While it’s near impossible to get my ass to yoga class after a long day at work, sometimes it’s exactly what you need to feel energized and refreshed in the winter. I’m planning on signing up for a few new yoga studios to get a new change of page while scoring a few class passes in the process too!

3. Eat Healthy {or at least healthier!}

I know it’s pretty obvious, but unfortunately pizza and pasta aren’t known for putting you in a good mood. Swap out carbs for fruits and veggies {or at least try a salad for lunch!} and you’ll see that you actually are what you eat – and the healthier food you eat, the healthier you feel.

4. Make plans. 

You know what always puts me in a good mood? Planning an epic trip or even just a weekend getaway! I always need something to look forward to, and making plans for an exciting adventure makes even the hardest, coldest days of the winter a little more bearable. I’m planning a pretty exciting trip for the summer with Jimmy {we’re going to Barcelona and Paris for 10 days!!!} and on the hardest days at work, I take a few minutes to pin a few of my favorite travel photos to make the day a little brighter 🙂

5. Embrace the season!

Sometimes you just need to embrace the cold weather and enjoy it, even if it’s a little hard to do! Light some candles, make yourself some tea, cuddle up with a good book and enjoy the fact that you can spend the afternoon inside without feeling guilty that you’re missing any beautiful weather.

6. Treat ‘yo self

Massages? Fine leather goods? Treat ‘yo self! But seriously, giving yourself a little TLC is sometimes exactly what you need to beat the winter blues. Treat yourself to a spa day, a mini weekend getaway, that pair of shoes you’ve been eyeing – any little thing can make a big difference when you need a mid-winter pick me up!

7. Try Aromatherapy

No, it’s not weird voo-doo, aromatherapy really works! The right scent can evoke certain moods and memories, which can make the winter blues a little more bearable. I’m a big fan of lavender all year round, but I especially love that it helps relax and keep me calm in the wintertime. For a more invigorating scent, I add a few drops of citrus essential oils to my bath water or a diffuser to give me a little more pep in my step.

8. Call your friends!

You know those friends you’ve been ignoring all winter long? Yeah, you should probably call them 😉 Being social is one of the best ways to boost your mood, and getting yourself out of the house is a must this time of year. Make plans, call your friends you’ve been meaning to call and catch up over coffee, ice skating, anything that floats your boat. Any other tip and tricks to beat the winter blues? I could use a little more advice as I sit here holding my extra hot cup of tea! Good luck getting through the last few months of winter – I promise there’s warmer weather in sight! xx