Warding off the Winter Blues

It’s the middle of January. If you live where it gets cold, this is the time of year that tends to feel like it stretches on forever. The anticipation of the holidays is over and the daily challenges can seem difficult to face. I’ve always thought that I have some seasonal depression, because when it gets dark early and is cold outside, I want to curl up in my bed and never leave. It’s also the time of year when new evaluations are flooding in, you might get new student transfers, and planning therapy sessions can feel like a big chore.

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So how can we ward of the winter blues? Here are my tips:

1. Make plans with friends: Even if it’s just meeting for lunch or to watch a movie, spending time with friends and laughing is some of the best medicine.
2. Try something new: I’ve been wanting to try my “hand” at hand lettering and there are inexpensive books available on Amazon. Learning a new skill is fun and can spark your creativity.

3. Try something different in therapy: Try using sensory bins, search on Teachers Pay Teachers or Pinterest for a new activity, read a new book, etc. Anything that will change things up might invigorate you and bring back the motivation you might be lacking.

4. Find a new TV show or a book: I love getting excited about a new TV show or book. Ask for recommendations from friends and family! Losing yourself in a new show or book can be super satisfying.

5. Get outside: While this might sound counter-intuitive, getting outside can be invigorating. Take a walk, go to a new store, or find a new restaurant to try.

6. Cozy up inside: I like to have one day in a weekend (if possible) where we don’t leave the apartment, especially in the winter. Stay in pajamas, make hot chocolate, and relax on the couch (<— not easy with a busy toddler).

7. Find a creative outlet: For me, it’s creating resources and writing blog posts. Find something that you will let your creative juices flow!

How do you ward off the winter blues?