27 Tips for How to Avoid Seasonal Depression

1. Escape On The Weekends

Half-day Fridays are not just for summer.

2. Spend Time Outdoors

Fresh air is basically medicine (according to the Mayo Clinic). A crisp midday walk it is.

Luckily it's not crazy early this time of year (around 7 a.m.) so any chance for some daylight, take it.

4. Make A Summer Vacation Pinterest Board

Science says that planning (cough, daydreaming about) your next summer vacation might just help you make it to April.

5. Buy Blooms

Your kitchen table is already stoked.

6. Start Fires

No, not to the blooms. We’re talking crackling logs and glowing embers. This is the stuff fall daydreams are made of.

Take simple steps to maximize what light you do have. (For starters, it’s time to wash those windows and maybe paint a wall or two.)

8. Throw AMexican fiesta

Tacos + margaritas = instant vacation.

9. Treat Yourself To Seasonal Staples

Suede booties, cozy cashmere knits, camel coats—all great incentives to get outdoors and strut your stuff.

10. Go The Spa

If you’re missing the warmth of the sun on your back, a hot stone massage should fill the void quite nicely.

For a little pick-me-up every time you take off the woolly socks.

12. Eat Carbs Unabashedly

This is officially a bikini-free zone.

13. But Mix In Energy-boosting Foods

Tomatoes, avocados and salmon are all foods that help beat the winter blues.

14.Read Escapist Summer Beach Books

The stack of books you never got around to reading when it was so lovely outside.

Salt air is good for the soul no matter what, and beach strolls are just as beautiful during the off-months.

Make the bed. Or an amazing smoothie. Greeting the day by doing something positive right off the bat affects your entire disposition.

Trust us, you'll be hooked.

18. Open The Windows

Even if it’s chilly, a quick dose of fresh air will keep your place from feeling stuffy.

19.Bake...often

Fact: It’s impossible to be in a bad mood when the house smells like melting butter. Here are some ideas to get you started.

20. Keep Active

Incorporate natural exercise into your day by walking an extra lap with the dog or taking the stairs at work. Endorphins are endorphins, however you can get 'em.

21. But Know When To Rest

Why are the darkest, coziest months sometimes the busiest? Make sure, though, you're still taking care of yourself so you don't burn out—or, God, get the flu.

22. Dress In Color

That pink statement coat taunting you in the window? You should go buy it.

Very Hygge!

Knit scarves. Start a blog to store your photos. Try your hand at watercolors. Making things always leads to a greater sense of fulfillment.

25. Make S’mores Indoors

Guess what, kids? You don’t need a campfire to make these feel-good classics. (P.S. Cocoa reduces anxiety.)

26. Find A New Show To Binge-watch

May we suggest one of these shows?

27. Fine, Just Go Someplace Warm

When all else fails, there’s always a resort in South America.