Here you are, possibly already dealing with the stress of life responsibilities and then the colder months come in and add to the effect of your mood. Many will experience the effect known as the “winter blues,” when the temperatures drop and you’ve lost all motivation and you’re feeling sad. Some will experience more serious symptoms like depression also known as seasonal affective disorder or SAD.
Here are 3 activities that you can do when you’ve got the winter blues.
1. Movement and Mindfulness Jar
Having the winter blues makes it difficult to want to get out of bed, but all of your days can’t be filled with laying around in your workout leggings and t-shirt. You’ve got to get up and implement regular body movements and exercise into your day. This will improve your mood, reduce stress, and eliminate depression symptoms.
First, grab an empty jar then print out the activity slips. You will notice there are a few blank cards you can use those to add in your own additional activities as well. Fill the jar with the activity slips. If you feel like you need a mood booster, pick a slip out of the jar. There are a variety of activities that could be done like attending a fitness class or going for a walk. If you find yourself stuck at home, because your job or class is now remote, there are activities that accommodate that too. For example, putting on your favorite tv show and doing 10 squats during each commercial break can be done in the comfort of your home.
Take note of what activities you notice cause a positive impact on your mood. You can easily track this with the use of a mood tracker.
2. Monthly Mood Tracker
This tool allows you to recognize what activities or situations boost your energy and what triggers a negative mood.
First, print out the mood tracker. You are going to choose a color to represent your mood throughout each day. You will then color in the box associated with the day of the month with the color that describes your mood. Start your day by seeing where your mood stands. If you are feeling anxious and depressed, and your color for that is purple, then you would color that in the corresponding box. Do the same for when you are winding down for the day to see if your mood changed after incorporating mindfulness and movement into it.
Boosting your mood also comes from affirming positivity into your life.
3. Affirmation Coloring Page
Positive affirmations cancel negative thoughts and allow you to absorb positivity. Each affirmation you state brings in confidence and the chance to believe that anything is possible. Repeat your affirmations aloud and let your mind peacefully wander as you color.
Having the winter blues can take a toll on you—physically and mentally. Download the activities here to ensure that you know what to do when you’ve got the seasonal blues.
Leave a Reply