Every year, millions of Americans report increased feelings of sadness or “winter blues” during the winter season. Some face an even more severe form of this known as seasonal affective disorder.
With winter weather moving in quickly and COVID-19 keeping more people indoors, it is more important than ever to remember to focus on your mental health. Here are just a few tips for how you can beat the winter blues this season.
Eat the Right Foods
The expression that you are what you eat came around for a good reason. Certain foods have been proven to increase your energy and boost serotonin levels – the hormone known for regulating your mood. A few of these include eggs, spinach, cheese and salmon. Plus, if you’re looking for a sweet splurge, chocolate has this affect too!
If you’re looking to get out and dine in to beat the winter blues, check out some of the discounts we offer for members at local restaurants here.
Connect with Loved Ones
There’s no better way to beat the winter blues than leaning on your friends and family. Setting up a virtual call with a loved one or writing a good old fashion letter can be a great way to get out your thoughts and decrease feelings of loneliness. Find some inspiration from AAA on how you can send a smile to your loved ones this season with some of our gift-giving partners.
Create a Positive Environment
How your surroundings make you feel plays a huge part in your overall mental health. A cluttered or messy environment can cause feelings of anxiety and stress. While many people are spending more time at home, creating a positive at-home space can be a great way to beat the winter blues. If the idea of cleaning or reorganizing your entire home sounds overwhelming, consider starting with a small area such as a book shelf or kitchen pantry.
If you’re planning to make a larger home upgrade, see how this can affect your home insurance and how AAA can help you maximize on your savings here.
Beat the Winter Blues with Self Care
Perhaps the most important way to beat the winter blues is simply to take time for yourself this winter. Whether it’s taking a hot bath, reading a good book or going on a virtual getaway, find moments this season to take care of yourself. Remember that if it makes you happy, it’s important enough to make time for it.
No matter what your winter looks like this year, AAA wishes you a happy and healthy season. Whatever we can do to help you beat the winter blues, AAA is here to help. Check out our full list of services and offers at Home | AAA Ohio to learn more.