How to beat the winter blues

Winter can be really long and dark. After a few weeks of gray skies, hardly any sunlight or cold weather, the winter blues set in. We feel tired and have no energy. I think almost everyone can relate to this and has experienced it from time to time. But we can use a few tricks to escape this low and get ourselves back on track. Here are activities that can help beat the winter blues:

• Be active outside. This tip may be as old as time itself, but getting out for a hike or walk can help lift your mood. Fresh air, a little sunlight (as much sun as winter allows) combined with exercise allows our bodies to produce vitamin D and endorphins. Put on your favorite outfit and go for a walk. Let's face it: worrying about how cold it might be is actually worse than just going outside.

• Treat yourself to food for the soul. There are these special dishes that make us and our souls happy, that warm us from the inside. Whether it's chocolate cake, pasta or a dish that your grandmother used to cook - go for it! Often, soul food isn’t the healthiest food – but if we promise ourselves to keep eating our vegetables, it’s okay. We all know: An apple a day keeps the doctor away, right?

• Learn something new. Is there something you've always wanted to learn? A foreign language, pottery, a musical instrument or meditation? Now is the right time to start. Be productive, try DIY projects at home or sign up for (online) courses. We can't wait to hear what projects you've been able to accomplish once you set your mind to it.

• Socialize. When it's cold and dark, our couch or bed seem like the only places we want to be. But not today! Hang out with your best friends, have a game night, or go out for drinks. Spending time with our loved ones and laughing together makes everything better.

• Wear light colors. Is your winter wardrobe dominated by black and gray? Yes, we all know that, but don't let the gray sky be your outfit inspiration. Bright colors are associated with happiness - so add some color to your winter look. How about a red scarf, a yellow cardigan or some of our colorful jewelry? Try it to see how it positively affects your mood.

• Practice yoga. Get rid of the stress and all the bad feelings with some yoga. No matter whether you like it meditative or physically challenging, you will definitely find the right form of yoga. Conscious breathing combined with the different poses will not only increase your flexibility, but can also lower your blood pressure and heart rate. Would you like to try it out? Check out our 10-minute lunch break stretch exercise.

• Film marathon. Popcorn, nachos, a comfortable outfit and most of all: your favorite films! That's all you need for a good movie night. To make it even more fun, you can invite your best friend or some friends. Because watching a timeless favorite film for the (at least) 159th time still makes us happy.