Temps in Chicago dropped to single digits this weekend and I must say I’m pretty happy to be in sunny Florida right about now. That said, I can’t stay forever – I’m actually headed home tonight. Sad face. So, I came up with 10 ways to beat the winter blues no matter where you are.
10 Ways To Beat The Winter Blues
1. Take a Hot Yoga Class
Amp up your normal yoga routine and try a hot class. You’ll feel warm from the inside out and ready to face the cold again. Just don’t forget to hydrate!!
2. Try Sleeping with a Weighted Blanket
Weighted blankets have been around for years, but recently they’ve been heralded as a way to ease anxiety, depression, and sleep more soundly.
3. Sip a Rum Punch at a Tiki Bar
What better way to escape the bitter cold than to sneak away to a tropical themed bar with a warm atmosphere? In Chicago, try Three Dots and A Dash or Flamingo Rum Club. In Atlanta, try The S.O.S. And if you have a fav in another city, let me know in the comments below!
4. Make Red Wine Hot Chocolate
Red wine is a perfect winter drink. And so is hot chocolate. I came across this recipe on Pinterest that combines them both and have been dying to try it. Maybe this weekend when the low temps are slated to be in the negatives …
5. Get a Sun Lamp
Lights that simulate natural sunlight are said to have many benefits – especially for easing seasonal depression and boosting your mood. They also claim to help regulate your sleep cycles when your body doesn’t see enough sun during the day.
6. Visit a Sauna or Spa
I talked about my trip to the Korean Spa in October, and that’s always an option, but really any sauna or steam room would be a nice break from the cold. I sit in the Hydration Pod at my local gym a couple times a week and will likely up this in the winter months!
7. Take a Weekend Getaway
You can’t change the weather where you are, but you might be able to head someplace warmer! This year, I planned a couple of warm-climate trips and spread them out through the winter months. In a couple of weeks, I’ll share a travel guide to St. Petersburg, Florida where I am now. And, toward the end of February, I’ll share a guide to Palm Springs where I’m going to spend a long weekend next month!
8. Cook Up a Pot of Chili
I love a good soup or chili in the colder months and I keep individual portions ready in the freezer at almost all times. This is my favorite easy crock pot chili recipe I’ve been making for years. I skip the sugar and add a dash of cinnamon instead!
9. Make Your Own Candles … Or Knit Yourself a Scarf
… Or really, pickup any indoor craft. But I like candles or knitting because they’ll do double duty on beating out the chilly temps.
10. Go Outside and Embrace the Cold!
When I moved to Chicago, my mom advised me to go outside every day no matter how cold it is, and I swear, it’s the best advice I got for surviving winter. Sometimes simply embracing the cold will help keep your spirits up so you can enjoy the winter rather than always fighting it.
What are your tips for making the most out of the winter months?
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