Darkness engulfs the Quad as four ‘o’clock classes are dismissed. Students think back to the days when the sun didn’t go down until at least 8 o’clock, oh how those were the days.
As February swings into full gear I think its safe to say that everyone is getting a little sick of this freezing winter weather. It definitely takes its toll. Throughout the long winter season staying motivated can be somewhat of a challenge. The shorter days and below zero wind chill give a great excuse to slip on some sweat pants and curl up on the couch all day.
I know springtime seems like it will never come, but there are ways to kick “Winter Blues. There are ways to stay stress free and avoid winter sadness throughout the long season. By engaging in activities that fulfill your needs, finding time for yourself and setting realistic goals for yourself and then prioritizing them can assist in getting through the long winter, suggests the Carle Clinic website.
For starters, doing activities that you choose will make you feel good about yourself. For example, exercising. In fear of sounding like Elle Woods from Legally Blonde, I mean this in a scientific manner—Working out releases endorphins into a person’s system, and endorphins make you happy. Getting an extra boost from working out can really go a long way. The positive effect working out has on one’s mood can be the first step to avoiding winter blues.
Besides exercise, choosing to eat a well balanced diet will make you feel more energized. While it’s easy to default to snacking on cookies or potatoes chips, picking up an apple and peanut butter or Laughing Cow cheese and whole grain crackers will satisfy your stomach pangs just as efficiently. Indulging in a healthy snack will not only give you more energy, there won’t be those “guilty feelings” all girls seem to have after munching down on junk food.
Another aspect of staying motivated through the winter season is setting realistic goals for yourself and prioritizing them. Instead of day dreaming about all of the great things you would like to do, write them down and go accomplish them! There’s something satisfying about crossing one of your goals off that list—it is very liberating. Besides the feeling of achievement, by writing your goals down, it will also keep you organized which will keep stress levels lower.
Focusing on you at times is extremely important. As college students we lead very busy and stressful lives; it is easy to forget to focus on what is important in your life, which is staying healthy and happy. By taking time out of your busy schedule to focus on your aspirations and relieve stress those ugly winter blues will seem so far away. We’re in the home stretch, spring is right around the corner.
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