Are you feeling down in the dumps when any winter (sometimes even fall) begins in Calgary?

You’re not alone.

Many people struggle with what’s known as the “winter blues.” The winter blues are a type of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which is a form of depression that’s related to changes in the seasons.

To heal and mitigate this feeling during the long months of Calgary winter, there are things you can do to feel better. Ogden Pharmacy suggests 29 techniques to help you beat the winter blues while enjoying your life in our beloved Calgary or in any place in the world!

1. Get Some Sunlight

One of the best ways to beat the winter blues is to get some sunlight. Sunlight helps your body produce vitamin D, which is important for your mental health. It can also help improve your mood and energy levels.

If you can’t get outside, try sitting near a window. You can also buy a light therapy lamp or box, which emits a special kind of light that can help treat SAD. Sometimes those lamps/boxes are on sale at Costco!

Don’t forget that in many countries, it is very hard (if not impossible!) to get enough sun (and hence sufficient vitamin D) in the winter. So you have to check with your doctor and pharmacist that you and your family are getting your vitamin D needs.

2. Exercise Regularly

Exercise is another great way to boost your mood and fight off the winter blues. Exercise releases endorphins, which are hormones that have mood-boosting effects.

In addition to helping your mood, exercise can also help improve your sleep, energy levels, and overall health. If you’re not used to exercising, start slowly and gradually increasing the intensity and duration of your workouts.

If you plan to go outside in the cold and exercise, you may want to check out this nice article that is related to winter and fall exercise.

3. Eat a Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy diet is important for your physical and mental health. Make sure to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. And limit your intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and alcohol.

Eating a healthy diet can help improve your mood, energy levels, and overall health. It can also help you maintain a healthy weight, which is important for your physical and mental health.

4. Connect With Others

Isolation and loneliness can make the winter blues worse. So it’s important to stay connected with family and friends. You can do this by meeting up with people in person, calling or texting them, or connecting with them on social media.

If you’re struggling to connect with others, there are also many support groups available. These groups can provide social and emotional support, which can be very helpful when you’re struggling with the winter blues.

5. Make Time for Fun

When feeling down, it’s important to make time for things that make you happy. Whether reading, watching your favourite TV show or going for a walk in the park, do something that brings a smile to your face. And don’t be afraid to treat yourself. Buy yourself a new book, a new outfit, or anything else that will make you feel good.

6. Get Organized

Sometimes the winter blues can be caused by feelings of being overwhelmed or out of control. If you’re feeling stressed, take some time to get organized. Make a to-do list, clean up your living space, or do anything else that will help you feel more in control.

7. Volunteer

Giving back to others is a great way to make yourself feel good. When you’re feeling down, do something nice for someone else. Volunteer at a local soup kitchen, help a neighbour with their groceries, or simply pay it forward at the coffee shop. Small acts of kindness can go a long way.

8. Limit Alcohol and Caffeine

It’s common to turn to alcohol or caffeine when you’re feeling down, but it’s important to limit your intake. Alcohol is a depressant, and too much caffeine can make you feel anxious. If you do drink, do so in moderation.

9. Avoid Negative People

When you’re trying to beat the winter blues, it’s important to surround yourself with positive people. Avoid anyone who brings you down or makes you feel worse. Spend time with people who make you laugh, and who make you feel good about yourself.

10. Practice Relaxation Techniques

There are many different relaxation techniques you can try to help you beat the winter blues. Try deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or visualization. Find a technique that works for you and practice it when you’re feeling down.

11. Seek Professional Help

If you’re struggling to manage your winter blues on your own, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist can help you identify the source of your depression and develop a treatment plan.

There are also many different medications that can be used to treat SAD. If you’re struggling with the winter blues, talk to your doctor to see if medication might be right for you.

12. Get Outside Every Day

Even if it’s just for a few minutes, natural sunlight can help boost your mood.

13. Limit Your Time On Social Media

Too much time on social media can worsen feelings of loneliness and isolation.

14. Do Something Nice For Someone Else

Random acts of kindness can help improve your mood and make you feel good.

15. Avoid Processed Foods

Eating healthy, whole foods can help improve your mood and energy levels.

16. Drink Plenty Of Water

Staying hydrated is important for overall health and can help improve your mood.

17. Don’t Skip Meals

Eating regular, nutritious meals is important for maintaining a healthy weight and stable energy levels.

18. Limit Your Exposure To News And Current Events

Too much news can be overwhelming and can worsen feelings of anxiety and depression.

19. Give Yourself Time To Adjust To The Change In Seasons

It’s normal to feel down when the weather changes, so give yourself some time to adjust.

20. Take A Break From Holiday Shopping

The holiday season can be stressful, so take a break from shopping if you need to.

21. Make Sure You Have A Plan For Next Year

If you’re struggling with SAD, make sure you have a plan in place for next winter. This can help reduce your anxiety and give you something to look forward to.

22. Spend Time In Nature

Being in nature can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. 19. Connect with your spiritual side. If you have a religious or spiritual belief system, connect with it. Prayer, meditation, and attending religious services can all be helpful.

23. Take A Vacation

If possible, plan a trip to somewhere sunny and warm. Just getting away from the cold weather can help improve your mood.

24. Make Your Home Cozy

Light some candles, put on some soft music, and make your home a relaxing place.

25. Make Sure Your Home Is Bright And Cheerful

Open the curtains and let in as much natural light as possible.

26. Get A Pet

Pets can provide companionship and love, which can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.

27. Take Up A New Hobby

Doing something you enjoy can help take your mind off of negative thoughts.

28. Join A Support Group

Connecting with others who are dealing with similar issues can be very helpful.

29. Talk To Someone About How You’re Feeling

Sometimes just talking to someone about your feelings can help.

The winter blues are a common problem, but Ogden Pharmacy mentioned many things you can do to feel better. If you’re struggling with the winter blues, try to follow some of this advice. These techniques can help you beat the winter blues and start feeling better. If you don’t feel better, you should see a doctor as soon as possible.