Fight Winter Back.

I don't think I'm alone in saying winter is a killer for the mood. I know not for all of us, but for a lot of us it is. Especially in the month of February. Winter seems like it has dragged on for far too long, getting out there in the cold to do every day tasks seem like a much harder thing to do, and spring is right around the corner. The anticipation is almost numbing. You can almost taste the spring air and feel yourself sitting on a patio with a drink in your hand. Winter is so difficult for me, the sun barely ever shines, I'm weighed down with winter boots and winter clothes, and I'm always cold in the summer, never mind the -30 degree weather that winter often brings. It's hard to find a good enough reason to ever leave my house. It just looks sad outside. Oddly enough, the winter blues have a name. S.A.D. Yes, we really are feeling sad. Seasonal Affection Disorder. Isn't it wonderful to put a name to how you're feeling!? Never fear, it goes away with the arrival of the spring and summer months. It's difficult to be happy when you're not getting sufficient vitamin D in your system. So open your blinds and let whatever sun is out there shine through, go for a tan, or pop a few supplements. It'll help and maybe you'll momentarily feel as if you are laying on the beach on some caribbean island. How else can you beat the winter blues? Many of us don't have the money or time to pick up and leave for a few weeks, so here are some helpful ways to make yourself Happier!
Remember those resolutions you made on December 31st? Still haven't acted on them have you. Well start now, it's never too late, you haven't failed. Engaging yourself in something you know is healthy for you and that you enjoy will boost your spirits. Move forward into the goals you wish to achieve. It'll put a smile on your face.
Exercise, even if it's just a brisk walk outside, or a quick 20 minute jog. Your endorphins will be up and you'll have more energy to finish your day. Grab a healthy snack after, unhealthy foods only make you feel good for a moment, not the long run.
Avoid drinking too much at one time... binge drinking. Alcohol is a natural depressant. So if you ever wonder why you just don't feel right the next day, thats why. 
Remember to relax and treat yourself to something you love. Pick up a good book, go home, light some candles and run a bath. Don't forget you deserve a little self love as well.
Lastly, if you plan something exciting with good friends, you'll have something to look forward to for the week. When the day comes and you just don't feel like leaving your house because the cold is so scary, remind yourself how much you have been looking forward to this and how much social support helps.
This is my advice in kicking S.A.D's ass. If any of you are in my shoes, these things will preoccupy you and make you less symptomatic as well. Now... if only I could figure out how to take my own advice!

Smile =) This Too Shall Pass!