Warming Up Those Winter Blues

Image: http://www.rocknrollbride.com/tag/winter/page/2/

If you live in the Northern Hemisphere - disregard this post. However, if you are one of my fellow Southerners experiencing a blizzard filled tundra of a Winter then please take note!

Winter is not always fun. Dry skin, cracked lips, frost-bitten fingers, weight gain, and a general feeling of blah-ness all contribute to what i refer to as the Winter Blues. Not only that, but it has been scientifically proven that Depression or feelings of sadness are higher in the Winter months. Even I have fallen victim to the sugar-craving pastry-stuffing ball of numbness that is so often seen huddled up on the side walks, bus stops and office places with cheeks flaring red and moods soaring to sub-zero temperatures. Ugh, Winter. But hang in there, Damsels! I have come up with a list of Winter warmers that will help you through this vicarious period of hibernation, chilly back sides and food binging.


1. Max out that heating appliance to tropical climates. A no-brainer, but seriously, there is nothing worse than escaping from the outside Winter chill only to be welcomed by a frosty igloo-like household.

2. Slip into some sweats! Preferably after a long, hot bath. There is nothing better than changing into your most comfiest, warmest tracksuit and 'chilling' on the couch with a heavy blanket and a remote.

3. Hot Chocolate. In front of a fire or heater. Wrap those cold Popsicle fingers around a hot mug of thick hot chocolate and feel your mood soar!

4. Exercise! It never fails to amaze me the amount of people who complain about going to the gym because of it being "too cold" outside. To me the gym is the perfect oasis for blustery blizzard days! Feel your body temperature warm up as your feet pound the treadmill and get a kick of that natural endorphin-induced high you get from working that body! Also great if like me, you have been over-indulging in 'comfort foods'

5. Embrace it! There's no point trying to fight Winter cos it's just gonna come back and kick you in the butt with frost bite. So why not make the best of it? Plan a snow day. Layer up and go for a stroll along the river bank, watching your breath make frosty patterns in the air. Go out to a cozy little cafe for hot chocolates and mocchacino's. Learn to ski or snowboard. Have a bonfire. Go ice-skating. Buy the cutest most colorful beanie you can find to get that noggin of yours warm and toasty. Turn up the music and dance those Winter chills away. Have a long hot shower or bath. Google tropical destinations and imagine sun-bathing in a bikini. Let nature run its course. And before you know it the sun will begin to peek its head, the grass will become greener, and the air sweeter. Ride the storm out and I guarantee those Winter blues will slowly fade away!