Explore efficient and actionable methods to increase drive and vitality throughout the damp Winter season.
Having experienced thirty-two Winter seasons on the West Coast (Vancouver Island, British Columbia), I am intimately familiar with the gloomy months.
Days resonate with the sound of falling rain and the heavens display numerous hues of grey. Certain days – such as today – are slate grey. Gazing out my window at 9am now feels like it’s almost time for slumber!
Residents are enthusiastic weather channel followers, and we all anticipate the day (typically roughly three weeks away) when the prediction shows a “hint of sunshine”. We quip that the actuality will likely be fog!;)
Throughout the years, I have gathered various pointers and techniques from fellow West Coasters (nicknamed “Wet Coasters”) regarding how to not merely endure this dark and dreary period, but to flourish in it as well.
As a side note & disclaimer, there is a legitimate medical condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder which may necessitate medical intervention. If you suspect you have it or a form of depression triggered by the weather, I strongly advise consulting a professional. I lack medical expertise and cannot provide guidance in that area.
Below are some straightforward and practical suggestions to elevate motivation and energy on dreary Winter days.
1. Make your bed immediately upon rising.
It won’t feel as appealing to want to crawl back into it if it’s already made!
2. Get dressed.
If you work remotely (like me) or are retired, you might succumb to the thought, “Why bother getting ready? No one will see me regardless.”
I urge you, instead, to view the act of getting dressed as one of your primary daily objectives. It might just enhance your productivity and perspective on life.
A shower can be refreshing and invigorating too. Donning comfortable and attractive clothing can boost confidence. Additionally, selecting a vibrant lipstick or colorful attire may uplift your mood, as well.
3. Tackle your “most dreaded project” first.
My mother used to discuss completing the “most dreaded first” during the day. Meaning, consider the task you are most reluctant to do, and simply execute it to get it off your mind. You may find that the task actually only requires minutes, after you have dreaded it for hours – or days!
Finishing something will provide a sense of “victory”, and will frequently motivate you to seek more of those successes throughout the day.
4. Select something as your “reward” for completed tasks.
Listen to me on this. Recently, I woke up after a full night’s rest feeling exceptionally weary. I seriously contemplated returning to sleep after my husband departed for his job.
Sometimes I do that, and honestly, sometimes it is the wisest choice for my wellbeing to do so.
However, that particular day, I decided to allow myself the freedom to return to bed whenever I desired, provided I first took a shower and got ready.
I was astonished at how much improved I felt, so I chose to accomplish “one more thing”.
One task led to another, and I discovered myself feeling immense joy as I gradually completed a mental checklist of household chores that had been nagging me.
However, I had committed to my “reward” for all this effort being a long nap whenever I desired.
Consequently, I worked until midday, and then settled in for my “earned” extended Winter nap. It was wonderful.
Pick a delightful treat as your personal prize. This will give you a reason to smile and anticipate what comes next.
5. Organize a getaway to a bright locale
Whenever feasible, schedule a trip to a sunny spot during the dreary winter season. Not only will the getaway itself be revitalizing, but the process of arranging it will introduce a sense of enjoyable expectation and something to eagerly await.
6. Incorporate a “sunlight simulator”.
I have not personally tested these, but numerous acquaintances rely on light therapy lamps to assist in encouraging Vitamin D production within their system.
7. Consume Vitamin D
While I am completely unqualified as a medical professional (therefore, always seek advice from your own physician regarding this), it is frequently suggested for residents of this region to use Vitamin D supplements. Statistically, there is insufficient sunlight throughout the year to meet our bodies' Vitamin D needs.
8. Engage in physical activity
Participate in any movement to get your circulation moving and muscles active. This will uplift your perspective on life! Here are some suggestions:
- Dress appropriately for the conditions and take a stroll. (I have scheduled this on my daily agenda for 10 o'clock in the morning.)
- Rapidly tidy up your living space.
- Launch a YouTube workout session and mimic the routine. This 15-minute comprehensive stretching clip is my go-to choice.
- Increase the volume of your preferred tracks and groove in the cooking area.
- Visit a fitness center or indoor swimming pool.
- Utilize the workout tools you have stashed in the visitor's room.;)
9. Hydrate adequately
One of the most straightforward changes I’ve made to boost my general wellness is keeping track of my daily fluid intake and aiming for the advised quantity. It is astonishing how much improved I feel just from adopting this minor routine!
10. Strategize your diet
When the sky is overcast and dim, I typically crave calorie-dense comfort dishes. While they seem perfectly suitable and snug during this season, they also generally leave me feeling less than optimal (as I gradually add to my waistline!).
Organizing dishes and even pre-freezing meals in advance assist us in making superior choices regarding nourishment – and supports our ongoing efforts to maintain optimal health.
11. Illuminate your space!
Integrate lighting into your residence that creates an atmosphere of brightness and cheerfulness.
We installed some basic strip overhead cabinet illumination in our culinary area, which makes a world of difference! Here are additional suggestions:
- Place an adorable small lamp in a kitchen corner.
- Weave string lights across the decorative items displayed on your shelves and bookcases.
- Incorporate authentic candles or those operated by a remote control into your tabletop arrangements.
12. Become a member of an internet-based "challenge" community
While composing this piece, the month is January and a fresh year has begun.
I have been exploring outstanding "challenge" programs covering subjects such as "30 Days to a Tidy Home" or a "7-Day Watercolor Art Course".
For those who appreciate receiving daily motivation or value a group for responsibility, consider searching Google for a topic that appeals to you; it might introduce a refreshing and enjoyable activity to anticipate each morning!
13. Engage in a creative endeavor and acquire a new skill
This varies greatly among individuals, as everyone has unique notions of what would be entertaining. A vast selection of free online lessons exists across numerous subjects.
During the period when we were all confined to our residences, I opted to master watercolor painting for novices. I derived considerable pleasure from adhering to online tutorials and footage while experimenting with something novel.
You may discover courses available within your local area where you can pursue topics that fascinate you; this would also provide a chance to connect with new peers as you advance your knowledge.
Do you possess additional suggestions for elevating spirits on overcast days?
It is possible many of you also experience a lack of vigor on gloomy days. If this is the case, I would appreciate it if you would share your strategies for increasing energy and drive in the comment section.
We all derive pleasure from exchanging knowledge with one another.
