Defeating the Winter Blues in College: February 2020
(February 22nd, 2020)
Hello my friends! Happy February! Today, we’re going to chat about an important topic: defeating the winter blues while you’re in college! In my opinion, wellness and health extend so far beyond food; mental health is so important and is a critical part of overall wellness.
I don’t know about you guys, but for me, the most difficult part of moving to a new state has been adjusting to the weather. When I was looking at school, nobody told me that Michigan gets CLOUDY for 5 months every year. I didn’t realize how much of a sunshine-lover I am until I came to school last year. Waking up in such a gray, gloomy environment every day really had an impact on my mood and well being last year. So, this year I am being proactive about defeating the winter blues before they hit!
Here’s How!
Flowers! This year, I’ve been keeping fresh flowers in my room as much as possible. This is so helpful because it adds just a bit of springy vibes to the cloudy days! I buy the cheapest flowers they have at the store or farmers market (usually about $7) and they last for about 7-9 days so it’s worth it for me!
Changing up your space! Another thing I tried this year is changing up the decorations in my dorm. The cloudy days make everything feel mundane, so new decorations, new photos, new plants, etc. help a ton!
Happy lamp/Sun lamp! My boyfriend got me a sun lamp for my birthday this year, so I’ve been using this to get that extra Vitamin D that I’m missing! I’ve used it a few times and so far, so good!
Take care of yourself! Another helpful tip that I’ve been trying this year is adding a new self care-ish routine into my days! I’ve started using Cocokind products, which are so amazing I could go on for days about them! I’ve developed a little routine and it makes me feel fresh, bright, and clean!
Open yo window! Even when it’s cloudy, I always try to open my window or keep my blinds open to let some natural light into my space…brings in fresh air and outside noises!
Paint your nails! A fun color on your finger nails can do wonders for a blue mood! This aqua color has been my favorite lately!
Eat summer-y foods! It can be tempting to eat seasonal foods all year long, which sometimes is great, but during the winter I like to eat some foods that are more summer-y like melons + fresh salads!
These are just a few ways to bring some spring cheer into your winter! If you have other ideas or things that you’ve tried, please, please let me know in the comments or on Instagram! Love you all!
XOXO,
Julia