[Pandemic] February Blues?❄️Here are 5 Strategies to Combat them

“From exercising to eating the right foods, there are plenty of ways to put the spring back in your step.”

Many of us feel lethargic or unmotivated during the winter months - add in a Pandemic, and those feelings amplify. Although February is considered the ‘last’ month of winter, it still has 28 of the dreariest days of the year. But from exercising to eating the right foods, there are plenty of ways to put the spring back in your step!

1. Get some sunshine/ Try Light Therapy ✨

This can be a tough one, depending on the current weather situation. I admit, you would never catch me out in the cold 2 years ago, but since the start of this Pandemic, it forced me to get outside even during the winter months. I must say, with the proper gear, add in a beautiful snowfall and Mr. Sun over top, it can be one GORGEOUS hike. 

If you’re not ready to brace the cold, I would suggest trying light therapy for 30 minutes a day. Research has shown that over 50% of people who are affected by the season can get either partial or full relief from bright light therapy. Keep in mind, that using normal light can be harmful and using ultraviolet-filtered (blue) light units are most beneficial. The blue light may suppress hormones which make you fall asleep to kick start your energy. I think its best to say that you should complete your light therapy during the day!

2. Supplement with Vitamin D AND Fish oils (Omega 3) ✨

You may have heard this one before…Vitamin D is extremely important to supplement with during the winter months. Since our main source of Vitamin D comes from sunlight, it is especially important to supplement during the month of February because it contains the least amount of sunlight in a year. Vitamin D helps to regulate our mood and boost out immune system. Fish Oils (Omega 3 supplements) can also be beneficial according to studies that suggest Iceland has the lowest rates of winter blues presumably because of the high consumption of fish. Omega 3 is believed to improve mood and improve functioning cells of the brain and blood.

3. Eat Complex Carbohydrates ✨

Refined Carbs such as greasy foods can give you a short term mood boost, but will make you feel more sluggish later on. Complex carbs, such as spinach, lentils and broccoli for example, take longer to digest which in turn doesn’t cause sudden spikes in blood sugar which can affect your mood. 

4. Build relationships✨

Solid relationships are a key component of happiness. Whether you begin calling your friend more often or set (at-home) date nights with your partner – this can be a great way to improve your mindset. Communicate with someone who lifts your spirits and makes you feel lighter after leaving a conversation!

Who did you just think of?

5. Exercise✨

Saving my favourite for last! This is the easiest way of beating those February blues in my opinion. When you [force yourself to] stay active - whether it’s through at home workouts, gym workouts (they’re back open, yay!) or going for a walk outdoors, this can have great effects on your mind and body. Research shows that a min. of 15 minutes of physical activity can increase neurotransmitters which are your ‘feel-good’ hormones and energize your brain.  

There you have it – my 5 strategies to helping you fight off those February blues❄️.

Stay warm, stay positive and let’s spring forward!✨