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5 Tips for Beating the Winter Blues
Let’s not fool ourselves—winter in the Midwest is not to be taken lightly. Midwesterners are typically treated to cloudy days, early sunsets, and the coldest days of the year. While some find it easy to see joy in this season of bundling up and hunkering down, many of us wish we could hibernate until spring!
Regardless of your feelings on winter, there are plenty of ways to stay ahead of the winter blues and make the most of the season. Here are a few tips to help you stay energized and positive during the year’s coldest months.
Soak Up the Sun (Lamp)
Winter can be especially challenging for those who thrive on sunshine. The Midwest’s three cloudiest months—November, December, and January—bring lengthy stretches of overcast skies and early sunsets. The lack of sunlight contributes to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of depression that follows a yearly cycle and affects millions of Americans.
Some years can be really difficult: in 2024, Grand Rapids, MI, residents saw only 23 hours of sunshine in January! Thankfully, there’s a proven, science-backed way to combat seasonal affective disorder: light therapy. Light box therapy—commonly referred to as “SAD lamps”—is effective in treating seasonal depression symptoms, especially paired with exercise and/or doctor-prescribed medications.
Get Outdoors
Though SAD lamps are a great help during the winter, no indoor treatment can compete with the feeling of working up a sweat outside, as long as it’s not too cold. A morning exercise routine is best, especially one that prioritizes outdoor activity when weather permits.
Sunny days might be rare in winter, but they’re worth embracing when they come around. While light box therapy delivers about 10,000 lux—a measure of light intensity that helps treat SAD symptoms—the sun provides over 100,000 lux on a clear day. So why not pick up something new? Activities like snowshoeing, skiing, or ice fishing are perfect ways to take in the great outdoors, even when it’s not-so-perfect outside.
Play the Hits
Music has a unique way of lifting spirits! Listening to upbeat or cheery music can significantly improve mood immediately and over time. When you turn on your favorite tunes, the feel-good hormone dopamine is released in the brain, producing positive emotions.
Whether you’re working, cooking, or simply lounging under a cozy blanket, throw on a playlist that brings you joy. When you’re the house DJ, the right soundtrack can make any winter day feel a little brighter.
Stay Hydrated
It’s easy to lose track of drinking water when the temperature drops, but staying hydrated is just as important in winter as in summer. Proper hydration helps the body flush out toxins and maintain energy levels in addition to keeping your skin well moisturized.
Absopure makes staying hydrated easy with bottled water options that are convenient at home, at work, or on the go. Find your favorite Absopure products in a store near you!
Laugh with Loved Ones
While it’s said that laughter is the best medicine, this is especially true when it comes to the winter blues. Laughing reduces stress hormones in your brain while giving it a rush of endorphins, something we sorely miss on gloomy winter days!
There are plenty of ways to invite more friends and family into your life this season—gathering to watch a classic comedy, heading out to a weekly trivia night, or sharing silly stories over dinner. Whichever option feels right, the time spent laughing and connecting with those who know you best is always worthwhile. If you’re looking for something completely new, consider laughter yoga. It might feel a little silly at first, but that’s kind of the point!
Stay Cozy with Absopure
Winter in the Midwest has its challenges, but it’s also an opportunity to embrace this unique time while prioritizing your well-being. Whether you’re staying active outdoors or cozying up inside, self-care, sunlight, and staying hydrated are the keys to making the most of these cold and cloudy months.
Keep a bottle of Absopure water by your side to stay refreshed and ready for whatever winter brings. Here’s to a vibrant and healthy 2025—cheers!
