7 Ways To Ease The Winter Blues

Most of us feel some degree of winter blues after the holidays are over and we’ve returned to our work routines. Colder weather, the lack of sunlight, and the absence of celebrations can make January feel a bit blah! Living on the East Coast, I know that I have 3 months of winter ahead, so I’ve learned to add some “everyday indulgences” to my home and routine. Here are 7 things that might help you ease your winter blues…

1. Candles & Scents

Over the holidays, my kitchen smelled so good! Whether it was chili in the crockpot or a fresh batch of cookies in the oven, we were always cooking something delectable. Now that we don’t need to bake so much, I’m enjoying the toasted almond scent of this lovely Capri Blue candle (a gift from a sweet friend.) You’ll find these candles online or at Anthropologie.

2. Music & Podcasts

Once my kids are back in school, I spend hours cooking, packing meals, cleaning, doing laundry, and driving. To make those chores a little more interesting, I listen to podcast episodes.

Many of my favorites are about blogging, but here are some for those of you who are not bloggers:

mindbodygreen

I’ve been reading mindbodygreen since 2014, and have learned so much about health and nutrition from their posts. Their podcasts feature a wide variety of wellness experts so you can hear a wide range of opinions and apply the information to your lifestyle.

Oprah’s SuperSoul Conversations

I just started listening to Oprah’s SuperSoul Conversations (yes, sometimes I live under a rock), and love her soothing voice.

What’s News

I have to confess, that I often avoid watching or listening to the news, as it leaves me with a sense of dread and hopelessness. Wall Street Journal’s What’s News Podcasts gives me the highlights. You’ll find similar podcasts from The New York Times, NPR, BBC or whatever news station you prefer.

3. Faux Fur & Other Cozy Accents

I love that the fashion world has made faux fur and fleece so mainstream. Last month, I bought the Powder Plush Robe from Pottery Barn for cold mornings (before my husband gets our wood-burning stove working!)

I also love their Fux Fur Ruched Throws. Both are Oeko-Tex® certified which means they are free of harmful toxins that are often found on polyester fabric.

If you prefer something natural, opt for a wool throw, like the Ledge Plaid Merino Wool throw from The Company Store.

4. Light

Shorter days and longer nights can make it harder to enjoy some of the healthy activities that we enjoy the rest of the year (running, relaxed dinners on the porch, watching the sunset, etc.) If you can afford the midday break, take a walk outside while the sun is brightest. Now that I take more photos, I keep chasing the sunshine and it works wonders for my mood.

5. Nature

If you can’t get outside during the day, think about bringing nature indoors (especially if you’re missing having a Christmas tree and poinsettia plants in your home.) If, like me, you’re a “plant-killer” here’s a post from mindbodygreen that might help you get started.

6. Color

If you miss those holiday plants, sparkling decorations, and pretty packages, consider adding some colorful items to your home. Greens and blues promote a calm atmosphere, while yellows, reds, and oranges add excitement.

7. Cozy Food

At this time of year, I switch my salads and smoothie meals to soups. I’ve had this cookbook for 17 years now and love that it not only taught me recipes but how to create my own recipes.

I also always have some tea or hot chocolate in my pantry for a mid-afternoon treat.

A Different Kind of Winter Blues

Pantone has just announced that their Color Of The Year is Classic Blue, so expect to see a lot of blue fashion and home accessories pop up in stores and online. Even if it’s not your favorite color, keep in mind that this shade of blue is pretty universally flattering, easy to coordinate, and calming. (Read this post if you want to know why I’m obsessed with this color.)

So what’s your favorite way to beat the winter blues? And what do you think of Pantone’s Color of the Year?