Inspire Yourself!
We are now in the thick of winter, and while February is the shortest month of the year, it seems that these cold dreary days just drag on. It’s safe to say that many of us have a bad case of the winter blues. But don’t lose hope—here are some ways to give your body and mind a lift so you can stay inspired to face another six weeks of winter without hating Mr. Groundhog.
Be Mindful. It’s important to stay motivated and productive in the dark days of winter because you are setting the tone for the rest of the year. You will benefit in the long run if you stay positive so you can feel your best mentally for the warm months to come.
Set Goals. Don’t be ashamed if you already have broken your New Year’s resolutions. At the start of each month, make new goals you want to reach. Ashley Nabbs from Olathe uses a white board to write down all of her goals for the month and finds it very gratifying to cross things off when she completes them.
Plan a Trip. Nothing is more exciting than having an awesome trip to look forward to. Planning your next getaway will present many other doors of accomplishments to meet that will keep you motivated, such as getting in shape, saving money or maybe learning a new language.
Make Plans. Time spent with friends and family can motivate and lift the spirits. Take time to plan an outing with someone close to you. This gives you something to look forward to, and the time spent together will be uplifting for you both.
Stay Sharp. Keeping your mind engaged and stimulated throughout the winter can be difficult at times. Now would be the perfect time to try something new! Pick up that hobby you’ve always wanted to learn. Sign up for a cooking or dance class. Watch a play or visit a museum. There are a ton of things to do in Kansas City.
Get Busy. Keep busy with projects. Now is the time to get your deep cleaning, organizing and big projects you’ve been putting off completed. Jennifer Moore finds that if she has a goal in mind, like a consignment sale, it keeps her busy and not focused on the weather, plus it’s a great way to purge clutter—and that always makes her feel great!
Change It Up. Our surroundings have a huge impact on our moods. Spruce up your home with a little makeover. Paint, rearrange the furniture, do that picture collage you’ve been eyeing on Pinterest. You will be pleasantly surprised how the slightest change can really liven things up.
Get Moving. Feeling sluggish during the winter is hard to avoid, but exercising is the best way to kick those winter blues. Get your endorphins flowing by exercising daily. Don’t have time for a full workout? Try mini ones throughout the day. Squat while folding laundry or run up the stairs. Check out exercises and yoga tutorials online if you can’t make it to the gym.
Get Outside. While it might feel like it’s 10 below out, getting fresh air and sun on your face will instantly brighten your spirits. Hang out with Mother Nature for a minute and more than likely she will surprise you with something beautiful, boosting your mood.
Eat Healthy. We crave rich comfort foods when the weather is nasty, because what could sound better than loaded potato soup in a bread bowel when it’s sleeting outdoors? The truth is when you fill your body with fattening foods, not only does it physically weigh you down, but it also affects you mentally. Re-energize your mind by eating fresh fruits and veggies, whole grains and lean meats.
Plan for Balance. You might find it helpful to plan and make time for specific activities that you know will make you happy and healthy through the winter season. Katie Schope of Overland Park finds it crucial to her well being to carve out time for her to be productive during the winter months so she doesn’t become a hermit.
Jennifer Duxbury is an Olathe resident and mother of two who survives the winter by planning tropical trips, reorganizing her house and making lots of to-do lists.