27 Tips for How to Avoid Seasonal Depression
There’s no denying that waking up, then coming home to darkness can be pretty friggin' dreary. But chin up-- here's your helpful guide on how to avoid seasonal depression and maintain a sunny disposition all season long. (No actual sun necessary.)
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1. Escape on the weekends
Half-day Fridays are not just for summer.
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2. Spend time outdoors
Fresh air is basically medicine (according to the Mayo Clinic). A crisp midday walk it is.
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3. Watch the sunrise
Luckily it's not crazy early this time of year (around 7 a.m.) so any chance for some daylight, take it.
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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.
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5. Buy blooms
Your kitchen table is already stoked.
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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.
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7. Let the light in
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.)
PHOTO: LIZ ANDREW/STYLING: ERIN MCDOWELL
8. Throw a Mexican fiesta
Tacos + margaritas = instant vacation.
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9. Treat yourself to seasonal staples
Suede booties, cozy cashmere knits, camel coats—all great incentives to get outdoors and strut your stuff.
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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.
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11. Paint your toenails a fun color
For a little pick-me-up every time you take off the woolly socks.
Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
12. Eat carbs unabashedly
This is officially a bikini-free zone.
Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
13. But mix in energy-boosting foods
Tomatoes, avocados and salmon are all foods that help beat the winter blues.
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14. Read escapist summer beach books
The stack of books you never got around to reading when it was so lovely outside.
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15. Even head to the coast
Salt air is good for the soul no matter what, and beach strolls are just as beautiful during the off-months.
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16. Start your days with a small accomplishment
Make the bed. Or an amazing smoothie. Greeting the day by doing something positive right off the bat affects your entire disposition.
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17. Volunteer
Trust us, you'll be hooked.
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18. Open the windows
Even if it’s chilly, a quick dose of fresh air will keep your place from feeling stuffy.
Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
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.
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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.
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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.
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22. Dress in color
That pink statement coat taunting you in the window? You should go buy it.
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23. Upgrade your loungewear
Very Hygge!
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24. Get creative
Knit scarves. Start a blog to store your photos. Try your hand at watercolors. Making things always leads to a greater sense of fulfillment.
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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.)
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26. Find a new show to binge-watch
May we suggest one of these shows?
COURTESY OF DANIEL PELUFFO