How to Beat the Winter Doldrums

The term “doldrums” is actually a nautical one. It refers to an area around the equator that was notoriously devoid of wind during certain times of the year and back when ships were exclusively wind powered, this could cause problems. As a result, many a ship languished in the doldrums for weeks waiting for the weather, and their fortunes, to change. Since that time, the phrase, “stuck in the doldrums” has come to mean any time we get trapped in a boring rut or routine from which we cannot seem to break free. This experience tends to be particularly acute during the winter months, especially January and February.

As with most things, there are several causes for these winter doldrums. The most common cause is something called seasonal affective disorder which translates into a form of depression caused by the reduced amount of daylight during the winter months. Another cause is the removal of fun and/or busy activities at the conclusion of the holidays. Yet another is related to the smaller amount of time we spend outdoors during the winter months due to the weather and lack of daylight. By the middle of January, the holiday glow has worn off and it’s difficult to see the light at the end of the tunnel which would be the coming of spring at the end of March and this makes the doldrums even more, well, doldrumy.

Below are a few suggestions to help you keep the doldrums at bay (another nautical term)…

• On the days you are able, get outside, especially if the sun is shining. Getting out of the house for something as simple as a 15-minute walk can do wonders for your perspective. We, as humans, have an inherent link to the out-of-doors. The natural world tends to lift our spirits and reestablishes that link. It also reminds us (both mind and body) that spring is coming, the amount of daylight will increase, and the doldrums are just a temporary thing.
• Remember, after the winter solstice, the amount of daylight increases every day. The simple fact of keeping this in mind can do wonders. That is one of the reasons ancient cultures, like those who lived around Stonehenge, celebrated the winter solstice. They knew that the solstice signaled their long journey to better, and sunnier, days.
• Incorporate a meditation session into your daily schedule. Meditation is a wonderful way to reduce stress and increase feelings of inner peace. If you’re unsure of how to begin, there are apps out there, such as Headspace, Calm and Healthy Minds Another, related idea, is to begin a yoga routine as well once or twice per week.
• Maintain your exercise routine and switch to a morning workout. Studies have shown that exercising in the morning helps people sleep better at night, burns more calories throughout your day and lowers blood pressure. And if you’re indoors, exercising in front of a light box or light therapy lamp can help with that seasonal affective disorder.
• Wear bright colors to combat those dreary grey skies. Yes, research has shown that wearing warm colors, such as reds, yellows, and oranges, can improve your mood and fend off winter-based depression. Better yet, choose a room within your home and turn it into your “warm” room. If you can, choose the room that gets the most natural light and paint it in your favorite warm/bold color. Then, fill it with your favorite tropical décor. Think palm trees, pineapples and tropical drinks. Not only will this improve your mood, it will give you a project to keep you busy for a few winter weeks.
• Speaking of keeping busy…stay busy during the winter months. Becoming a winter hermit is one to the worst things you can do. Fill your social calendar with things that make you happy. Get out there with friends and family and “out there” can mean anywhere. Don’t hibernate during the winter, celebrate!

Yes, fighting the winter doldrums can be just that, a fight! But you’re more that capable of winning this fight. It just takes some effort on your part as most fights do. However, if your seasonal affective disorder is particularly severe, please do not be afraid to seek professional help, especially if the above suggestions fail to improve your mood or alleviate your depression.