Now that the hustle and bustle of the holidays is behind us and January is finally in the rearview mirror, you might be wondering… now what? Winter is still going strong, bringing bitter cold, wind chills, snow, and those long stretches of gloomy, gray days. And if you believe the groundhog, we’ve got six more weeks of winter ahead! It’s no surprise that this time of year can leave many feeling down, blue, or just plain blah.
The good news? There are some simple things you can do to help shake off the winter doldrums:

• Step outside each day for a little fresh air. It doesn’t have to be for a long time—even a few minutes outdoors can make a difference.
• Let the light in! Open your curtains, drapes, blinds, or shades during the day. Even on cloudy days, natural light can help boost your mood.
• Get enough sleep—but don’t overdo it. While rest is important, too much sleep can actually leave you feeling more sluggish.
• Eat well and stay hydrated. Comfort foods can be comforting (and that’s okay!), but enjoy them in moderation. Many are high in carbohydrates and can leave you feeling weighed down.
• Get moving and stay connected. Try something new or pick up an activity or hobby you once enjoyed. Getting off the couch, out of the house, and around other people can do wonders for your mood.

If you’re looking for ideas, St. Alphonsus offers plenty of opportunities to stay active and engaged:

• Pinochle: Tuesdays at 1:00 PM (no experience needed!)
• Mexican Train Dominoes: Thursdays at 1:00 PM (no experience needed!)
• Volunteering for Project Hope
• Learning CPR in your home
• Joining one of the many programs at St. Alphonsus, such as the Mom’s Group, Bible Study Group, Spiritual Book Club, St. Peregrine’s Corner, and more

And remember—if you’ve tried these tips and still find yourself struggling, it’s okay to ask for help. Consider reaching out to a professional.