Okay fine – it’s not really winter weather. It’s a sad day when it’s early February in Canada and the grass is as green as ever. Nonetheless, “winter” blues still happen.
- Focus on the positive. Yes, you may have two unit tests in a day. Yes, you may have only gotten five hours of sleep last night. And yes, that really can put a damper on your day. But there’s so much that we all take for granted. Food, access to clean water, a roof over our heads… the list is endless. So look at the glass half full. In fact, studies have linked optimism to better health* – and even if the study wasn’t reliable, it can’t hurt to be grateful.
- Smile. It actually releases endorphins that make you happy. It may be hard sometimes to smile when you’re having a terrible day, but even a fake smile works.
- Find a friend. Friends always have a way of making you happy. Even if it’s just for a few minutes, go chat someone up. In fact, talk to someone you haven’t talked to in a while, and you’ll be sure to leave both of you smiling. Hugs are particularly good pick-me-ups, as well.
- Call someone. If you’re alone at home, call a friend! Preferably the funny one that manages to make you forget that you ever even had problems.
- Look nice. Sometimes, you just wake up on the wrong side of the bed. When this happens, you know instantly that you won’t be having a good day. The best way to counteract this? Look good. Now, this may sound both frivolous and unfounded, but hear me out: when you look nice, you feel a little better about yourself, and you may even get a compliment, which definitely puts a spring in your step. And remember that “nice” is subjective: the key here is to incorporate something you like into your look – a hair accessory, jewellery, new pair of jeans… anything that makes you happy.
- Listen to a good song. Sometimes, music is the best medicine.
- Sing along, or having a mini dance party. If just listening to the music doesn’t help, sing along, karaoke style. Or, if you’re not much for singing, have a little dance party. Note that the best time to do this is when you’re alone – i.e. where there aren’t witnesses to a slightly embarrassing little musical.
- Exercise – a little, at least. Exercising for only a minute or so helps blood flow and leads to an overall sense of well-being. But exercising for longer actually boosts endorphin levels in the brain, increases focus, and leads to general contentment.
- Do something you love. This sounds obvious – and it sort of is. But a lot of people neglect their favourite pastimes. Whether it’s journaling, poetry, reading, cooking, dancing, or watching your favourite T.V. show, take a little time out of your day to have some fun, and you’re sure to feel better.
* Study can be found at http://www.reuters.com/article/2009/03/05/us-optimist-health-idUSTRE5247NO20090305
