Back in 2009, I made what I called “The Winter Resolution.” The goal was to find a way to enjoy winter. Sounds simple, right? Not so much.
Since then, I’ve made some excellent progress and don’t cower as much when the temperature drops. But I still don’t find it easy. It’s not “natural” for me … what feels natural is to run away and not come back until Spring!
This winter is no different. Or maybe it is. Because it somehow actually feels more difficult this year. Although I’ve never really enjoyed being out in the snow, I’ve never minded curling up with a good book and hibernating. But, mentally, it feels tougher this year. I got quite sick in January, and then had a cough that lingered … and lingered … and lingered. Now that it is February and I must face the hard fact that winter is far from over, I have decided that I need to “buck up” and take some action against the winter blahs.
Step #1: Multivitamins
I don’t normally take multivitamins. Don’t ask me why, it’s not like I have anything against them. I just never understood why I would need them if my diet is providing a full spectrum of nutrients. But now I wonder: am I feeling so tired because I’m low on iron? Or perhaps I am feeling glum because my body is desperate for some vitamin D? Regardless, I have decided to take multivitamins each evening. I’ve been doing this for a couple of weeks now and although I can’t tell you definitely if they’re making a difference, I suspect they might be.
I’m taking a “women’s formula” and they are not the easiest things to swallow. But c’est la vie.
Step #2: Walking
Since I started this Winter Resolution, I’ve been gradually investing in better winter gear. Now that I have proper boots, jacket, and gloves, going for a walk in the winter is actually enjoyable (if the wind chill isn’t up). To keep myself motivated (and let’s face it, honest), I am also using a FitBit to track my steps. Each day, I aim for 8,000 to 10,000 steps a day. While this might not be much for some, it is a challenge for me to get this many steps in each day. And yet, this is what is recommended for a daily, healthy lifestyle … not to be fit, or lose weight …. just to be healthy. When I can’t bring myself to head out in the cold, I use my treadmill and Mr. Draper. I know without a doubt that I feel less blah and more energetic when I get my steps in.
I broke my original FitBit, so I bought the FitBit Zip at my local Rogers store for $59.99 (you can also buy it online here). I love the thing.
Step #3: What else?
So, friends, what else can I do to beat these winter blues. I’m been considering using light therapy. My friend Andrea started using a Litebook back in 2006 and she still swears by it. I haven’t forked out the cash for it yet, but I’m close.
Tell me … do you use any tips and tricks to mentally get yourself through the winter months? How are you faring this winter?
Note from Julie on November 15, 2015: Hey, are you curious to see how this whole Winter Resolution thing has been working out? Check out this post for an update: “What I’ve Learned from Saying “Yes” to Winter.”
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