Winter Survival Guide

I don't know about you, but this time of year always gets me in such a blah mood. The excitement of Christmas and New Years is over, most everything outside is dead and colorless, and you can't leave the house without layers. In an effort to be more positive until spring rolls around, I've thought up a few ways to help beat the winter blues.

1. Stay stocked on winter essentials
This may be different for everyone, but for me, there are four things that I truly wouldn't be able to make it through winter without.

Lotion - My hands get so dry in the cold months. Sometimes they crack until the bleed. Putting lotion on at least every night before bed helps a lot! I linked my current favorite that I use daily.

Lip Balm - Same goes for my lips. I prefer Burt's Bees over Chapstick. I use this at least once a day.

Warm Socks - If my feet are cold, I'm cold. Cozy socks are a must for inside my boots and just around the house.

Warm Leggings - I live in fleece lined leggings! I always wear them when I'm our running errands in the cold or under a dress at work.

Blanket Scarves - The extra bulkiness of these gives me so much warmth! I love wearing them with sweaters and swing dresses for work.

2. Use your supports
In the colder months, it can be so easy to isolate yourself. I really don't enjoy being cold and feel like sometimes my body just can't handle it, but I make it a point to still go out and do things. Whether it's going out to eat or going over to someone's house to visit, it's important to socialize. We're humans, that's what we're meant to do! In times when you really don't want to or can't go out, at least pick up the phone and send a text or make a call. If you really feel down during the winter months, consider getting some extra help by talking to a professional.

3. Don't pay much attention to the weather forecast if it's over 3 days out
This may only apply to you if you work in education and get excited about snow days. I always get my hopes up for a snow day when I see the snowflake in my 10 day forecast, but it almost always disappears as it gets closer. This makes it so much harder for me to get up and go to work that day! I've recently started to ignore the forecast much more than 3 days ahead of time so I'm not constantly disappointed. I love my job, but there is a certain happiness when you get an unexpected day off!

4. Plan a summer trip to somewhere warm
This is especially easy for me this year because we're planning our honeymoon to Anna Maria Island! We already have our room booked, and a few days ago (while it was 17 degrees outside) we spent a lot of time researching places to see, restaurants and bars to check out, and other things to do. It feels great to have something to look forward to!

5. Take care of yourself
I've said this before, but self care is so, so important. Any little thing counts - painting your nails, treating yourself to Starbucks, a bubble bath, chocolate... whatever your heart desires, you deserve it!

What do you do to beat the winter blues?