when the grey skies get you down

Today was a beautiful day, quite unlike the past few… It has been cloudy and cold in Evanston and it didn’t hit me until today when I was walking outside in 65 degree weather that I’ve been in a mood lately. Maybe it hasn’t been noticeable to most people, but when the weather gets colder and the skies are grey, it has a huge effect on my mood. In Colorado, there are 300 days of sunshine every year and so I’m still not quite used to days in a row of overcast weather. I want to curl up in a ball with a bunch of blankets next to a fireplace drinking a big cup of tea. Which, for one night, isn’t bad at all. But after a few days, it can be too much.

I know that I’m not the only one too. Seasonal Affective Disorder is a very real thing and it is only going to get worse as the temperature drops and the days get shorter. So, while I’m in a good mood and the sun is shining, I’m coming up with a list; a list of things I (and anyone else who suffers from the grey sky melancholy) can do to cheer up when the sun is hiding away from us because, even though I don’t want to admit it, winter is coming.

1. work out
   Though it might be too cold for a lovely morning run outside, a gym is never too far away. There is nothing like a good endorphin rush when you are feeling down. Elle Woods said it herself: “endorphins make you happy and happy people just don’t kill their husbands.” They are also less likely to want to hibernate in a giant pile of blankets.
2. listen to pump up music
   Yes, slow songs seem to match cold weather perfectly, but they also only exacerbate a glum mood. Put on some party tunes [when in doubt, dance it out] and you will be feeling better in no time.
3. find a cuddle buddy
   Because sweater weather is also prime cuddle weather, I am definitely not saying to not do so. Just find someone to snuggle with. It’s easy to want to be less social during this time of year, yet withdrawing yourself from people will not help your mood. Grab a bestie or a special friend + cuddle. Being with someone you care about is a guaranteed trick to lift your spirits.
   
4. dress up
   When it’s cold outside, my sweatpants seem to be screaming my name “wear me! wear me!” However, getting dressed up is something I have to do when it is below freezing outside. There is nothing wrong with sweats, but putting on a nice sweater, leggings, and little boots can make you feel better. Take care of yourself, give into vanity just a little bit, and it can go a long way to re-energizing yourself.

stay warm + stay happy

xoxo