Though the winter season only makes up one-fourth of the entire year, it can sometimes feel as if it drags on forever. Frigid temperatures and limited daylight can also contribute to the “winter blues,” leading to decreased energy and motivation. Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a seasonal depression that affects around five percent of adults in the U.S. every year.

Having the winter blues doesn’t necessarily mean you’re suffering from seasonal depression, but it’s safe to say that winter can cause a mood shift in many of us. If you’re feeling lethargic and unmotivated this winter, here are some ideas to try in order to combat those feelings and bring a little bit of light into the cold, dark days of winter.

PAINT A WALL A BRIGHT COLOR

Painting a wall in your home a bright, cheery color can bring a little bit of light and energy into your home. The change may help rejuvenate your mood and break up any monotony you may be feeling.

ADD SOME LIVING PLANTS, FLOWERS

Fragrant flowers and greenery can create an atmosphere that mimics spring and summer. Bright floral arrangements can liven up a room, and having living plants in your home adds a nurturing aspect to your home that you may be missing with the stark of vegetation outside.

USE LIGHT THERAPY, SOOTHING SCENTS

A light therapy lamp can mimic outdoor light. Sitting in front of the lamp for around half an hour every morning can get your day started on a good foot. Soothing, warm-season scents that emit a bright aroma can transport you to the fresh blooms of spring or the warm, salty ocean waves of summer.

GET SOME EXERCISE

When you’re feeling lethargic in the winter, the last thing you probably want to do is exercise. But once you get past that initial feeling and get out there and move, you’ll release endorphins that can relieve stress and boost your mood.

WATCH YOUR DIET

Carbs can feel comforting when you’re feeling down, but that comfort is fleeting and can lead to you feeling even worse. Eating a well-balanced diet of fruits, vegetables and whole grains is more likely to energize you throughout the day.

TAKE A DRIVE

You may feel like hibernating in your cozy home throughout the winter season, but getting out and about now and then can be good for your mental wellbeing. Taking a drive through the country can get you out of the house while remaining warm in your heated vehicle, and the change of scenery can help curb cabin fever.

MAKE A BOOK LIST

Curling up with a good book and a cup of hot cocoa is a cozy and relaxing way to enjoy the season. Observing the starkness of winter from inside your warm home can make you feel a sense of protection from your dwelling, and absorbing yourself in engaging story can help rejuvenate your mind.

HAVE A GAME NIGHT

Surrounding yourself with positive people while partaking in a fun activity, such as a board game, can curb the loneliness that the winter season can sometimes bring. Making regular plans, such as a bi-weekly or monthly game night, can give you something to look forward to during the season, rather than just counting the days until spring.

START A PROJECT

Winter is the perfect time to work on a home project such as organizing or decluttering. Free up space by getting rid of old clothing and items you no longer use. Clutter, especially in the winter, can make the walls feel as though they are closing in on you. A clean, organized home often brings a sense of refreshment and revitalization.

TRY COOKING NEW DISHES

Food can be comforting, especially in the winter. But rather than just preparing the typical comfort foods you’re used to, try creating a dish you’ve never made before. Branch out and surprise your taste buds by introducing them to a flavor you’ve never tried. It may broaden your flavor palette and lead to your new favorite meal.

ADDRESS ANY POTENTIAL DAMAGE IN YOUR HOME

Winter weather can sometimes result in damage to your property, which certainly won’t help you cope with the winter blues. Addressing any potential issues as soon as possible is the best way to get them fixed in a timely manner. Snow and ice can damage your roof and cause water damage in your home. We may not be able to help you with your winter blues, but we can help if you have damages resulting in a water damage insurance claim.

ABOUT K-FACTOR ADVOCATES

K-Factor Advocates is a public adjusting firm that specializes in insurance claim negotiation, policy language and interpretation, and claims estimating. K-Factor’s team of public adjusters work on behalf of the policyholder. Coverage areas include Montana, Idaho, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan.