Depending on where you live, winter can be extremely harsh. If you are still facing snowy days and overcast skies well into February, it can feel like you may never see the sun again. Although we know that is not true, it doesn’t stop us from feeling a bit down during a long, cold winter. The winter blues are very real, and overcoming these feelings may require some creativity.
There are many ways to make the most of this unique season, even if travel is limited and the heating bill eats into our wallets. Here are seven ideas to help you defeat the winter blues and experience more joy during this season.
Invest in Warm Lighting
Fluorescent, white lights can be real mood killers, and with the increased darkness of winter, you may find yourself keeping the lights on more often. However, the lighting in your home can alter your mood, and if you are stuck inside during a snowstorm, a cozier setting can make the experience more tolerable. Consider replacing some of your fixtures with yellow lights and warmer illumination.
Adjust the Colors in Your Home
Just as lighting can cast a certain color around your interiors, the colors of paint, furniture, and decor can also shape the home’s atmosphere. Adding warm colors can make even a modern home feel cozy during the long, dark winter. Instead of beiges and whites, try using soft yellows and oranges or light blues. These colors, combined with warmer lighting fixtures, can significantly improve how comfortable you feel at home.
Try Winter-Themed Adventures
Once the holidays are over, it feels like there is little to get excited about for the next few months. You can change that by finding winter-themed adventures in your area. For example, many towns host holiday light tours or winter festivals, allowing you to get out of the house and experience the unique beauty of winter. Many homeowners leave their holiday decorations up for a month or two after the celebrations end, so you can even find a cute neighborhood to drive through or walk in during the evening to admire the lights.
Consider a Winter Sport or Activity
Some activities are only possible when the temperatures drop and snow falls. Skiing, snowboarding, sledding, snowshoeing, and ice skating can only be enjoyed for a few months every year. If there are activities on that list you have never tried before, this may be the year to give them a shot. You might discover a new passion you can look forward to every winter, especially as you work through the colder months of January and February.
Invest in Better Snow Removal Equipment
One of the hardest parts of winter, especially a particularly snowy one, is the constant need for clearing the snow from your driveway. Often, you cannot leave for work, school, or leisure activities until you have cleared the driveway after a bad storm. This can be back-breaking work if you don’t have the right equipment. If you normally rely on shovels, consider investing in a snowblower. If you want an even faster snow removal method, a tractor snow blade can significantly reduce time, so you can leave the home when necessary.
Winterize Your Home
Winter can be a difficult season for homeowners. Many of the most damaging situations occur in winter, including overworked furnaces, burst pipes, and roof collapses. Winterizing your home means preparing it for the colder temperatures and increased snowfall. Test for drafts with a candle and invest in weatherstripping to retain heat better. Clear the gutters to avoid clogs that may cause water damage. Purchase equipment to manage snow accumulation on the roof. You can make an old home more energy-efficient without spending thousands of dollars, which will lower your utility costs during the cold season.
Work on Interior Home Projects
Many home maintenance and improvement projects are not feasible during the winter, especially those involving the yard or exterior. However, being hunkered down inside is a great excuse to tackle some of those indoor projects you have been putting off. It may be time to replace some of the hardware on your kitchen cabinets. Dry air makes it an excellent time for interior painting, as the lack of humidity helps the paint dry faster. Addressing insulation gaps will help the house retain heat, so your furnace isn’t on as much, and you can save money. It is easy to identify which areas of the house have poor insulation in winter. Whatever rooms, windows, or doorways feel the coldest are the most likely spots with insulation issues.
Don’t Let This Season Destroy Your Mental Health
Seasonal affective disorder is a very common concern at this time of year. When you don’t see the grass or hear the birds for months at a time, it can be tough on your mental state. The shorter days and colder temperatures don’t help either.
Conquering the winter blues is all about being proactive. Start winterizing your home in late fall to make your job easier once the snow begins. Research local winter events in your town or nearby communities to try something new this year. Try scheduling a lesson or rental for skis, snowboards, or snowshoes. Replace the light bulbs in the house with warmer lighting that feels cozier. Getting through the winter just needs a little creativity and experimentation.