Beat Winter Blues

Does winter sometimes feel like a dark tunnel that goes on and on and on? If you’re like me and you simply detest it with every fibre of your being, then you have come to the right place. I’m Canadian and boy do we know how to do winter over here. We’re so cozy with Jack Frost; we bloody well spend half the year getting dirty with that bastard!

So the way I see it, there is only one thing to do. We must have a little tête-à-tête and share strategies on how to make slogging through the cold, wind, snow, ice, hail, rain and slush even remotely bearable.

These are some of the ways I keep sane, when it’s cold enough outside to literally freeze my face off.

Exercise: I use working out as a tool to basically deal with everything. I count on the release of stress and the uplifting mood that I know is guaranteed when I’m done. That is my swift kick in the butt, on the days when I really don’t wanna do it.

Heat: I hate winter attire. I feel the least sexy and attractive in the winter months. I look like a jerk every time I put on a wool hat, I think I’m roughly the size of Godzilla when I wear my warm winter coat. The key here is, I wear it anyway.

There is ample opportunity for me to sex it up, during the two months of summer that are done before I even get the chance to finish my glass of Sangria. Warm, somewhat fashionably challenged clothing makes a big difference. Find the warmest and ugliest boots out there. Trust me, your defrosted toes will thank you!

If you’re desperately seeking heat, there are other simple ways to bring it into your life when you need it most. Visit a sauna, use a hot water bottle or a heating pad when you come in from treacherous weather.

One of my favourite ways to warm up, is a long epsom salt bath with a cup of piping hot ginger tea. If you have never tried an epsom salt bath before, do yourself a favor and pick some up next time you’re out. I can’t even put into words how relaxing and soothing this stuff can be. Don’t forget the candle light, to complete your Zen experience!

Self-care: What never fails to make you happy? Incorporate more time for anything guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Treat yourself with extra care, the way you would a loved one going through something difficult.

Nourish your body, give it more of what it wants and needs. Anything can fit into this category; it is possible to make winter easier if you surround yourself with whatever makes you feel good. Try to put more effort in making the most of your down time, by not simply spending it staring at a screen.

Find ways to make your meals special, search for different ingredients and recipes. Don’t wait for an occasion to beautifully decorate your dinner table or to add a colourful flourish to your plate.

Our surroundings have a huge effect on our mood. Candles, mood lighting, clearing clutter and attractive men in kilts instantly lift my spirits!

Hey Jack Frost, I think it’s time for you to hit the road…

F.

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