Right around this time, everything is boring. The excitement of the winter holidays and new year have passed, spring break is too far into the future and the end of the school year seems like eons away. A new semester has just begun, and every day feels endless. Second semester to me feels like an old Greek myth: we labor like Sisyphus to get the rock to the top of the hill, only to have it roll down and start again. After working hard and accomplishing our goals for first semester, it seems so meaningless that we have to do it all over again. Not to mention that the weather is cold and gray, further adding to what I like to call the mid-winter blues.
This time of the year is dull, monotonous and involves a lot of work. There doesn’t seem to be much to look forward to, and I can feel my motivation leaving me like sand falling through an hourglass: slow and steadily. Here, I have put together a list of some easy pick-me-ups to combat these winter blues!
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Exercise
Going to the gym or putting in the effort to be active feels like a drag (at least to me) but it has been scientifically proven that exercise can elevate mood, and make you feel much better. In addition, many people make resolutions to lead a more active lifestyle, but never follow through! If you are feeling down, take a break from that work and go for walk, hit the gym, or call some friends for a competitive game of badminton. The local YMCA’s offer drop in gym or pool times at a low cost.
2. Sleep!
Are you getting the recommended amount of sleep? I’m not, and chances are, you aren’t too. However, turning in early will ensure you wake up better rested and ready to face whatever the day might hold. There’s also nothing better than being safe and snug under the blankets when the wind is howling and is -30°C outside.
3. Stay Warm!
It has also been proven that being cold makes you more depressed, so bundle up! Clutch those warm beverages close, and indulge in steaming hot comfort food. Ensure your home is between 18 and 21°C for maximum comfort.
Websites:
8 Scientifically-Backed Ways to Beat the Winter Blues
Beating the Winter Blues
