By: Kelli Whitman

As we dive head first into what seems like a winter that will last forever, it can be hard to stay your happy-cheery self. The weather outside may be dreary, but that doesn’t mean you have to be! Here are some tips to beat those winter blues.

1.   Exercise:  Staying active is a great way to boost your mood and leave you feeling more energized, especially after a morning workout. However, these workouts don’t have to be so intense. Just getting up and walking for a half hour is a great way to get the blood pumping.

2.   Shine Some Light:  When you’re feeling tired in a dark environment, try turning up the lights. During gloomy days, your body doesn’t get as much light as it usually does, so sitting next to an artificial light is a sufficient temporary replacement. Even sitting next to a window on a somewhat sunny day can give your body the light it needs.

3.    Eat Right:  Following a healthy diet will give your body energy and boost your mood. Also, divulging in a little dark chocolate, here and there, will release happy endorphins throughout your body. Because who doesn’t like chocolate?

4.    Find a Hobby:  It’s hard to keep busy when going outside isn’t an option. Try finding something you like to do that can be done at home. It can be anything! From knitting to blogging, anything that you enjoy doing is a great way to keep yourself busy and cheerful.

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