Dreary Weather Getting to You? Surprisingly easy ways to feel better in 5 minutes or less.
I know, sounds gimmicky, but there are neurobiologically backed ways to give yourself a boost. Your brain may be reeling from the low light, weather-induced hibernation, or the extra burden of braving treacherous weather. So, let’s take a brain-based approach to intervening to feel better.
Move. I am not talking about the standard recommendation to get exercise (though, if this is your jam, by all means…do it!). You get endorphins and other mood boosting neurochemicals when you move your body, especially when you do it with intention. This can be as simple as rolling around on the floor (sounds silly, but don’t knock it until you try it) or as fast paced as doing 15 quick jumping jacks.
Sensory boost. We have a tendency to pile bland days with bland colors and flavors–pile on the blankets and the soups, stews, and oatmeals. While this can be super comforting for a day of cold and rainy, it can start to feel oppressive and sad after a time. Our brains have spent years drawing an association between these items and being sick, being tired, or being sad. So, believe it or not, you may be tricking your brain into thinking you are not well! Crazy, right? Can you give yourself a “bright” item for each sense? Here are some ideas:
Paint your nails a bright color or wear a bright shirt.
Make a light, fresh meal like a salad full of big flavor like a jalapeno dressing.
Smell something that you associate with summer (maybe some sunblock?).
Play a song you associate with beach days.
Pop the hibernation bubble. Call a friend. Maybe someone you haven’t talked to in awhile. For all you know, they may need the boost, too, so you are being of service to “wake” them from their winter blues, too. Social connection gives you a huge surge of neurochemicals that can be incredibly healing, and it gets you out of your head. Don’t know who to call? Comment on someone’s emotional help-seeking post in the humanest forums–you’ll brighten a stranger’s day, and in turn your own…and you don’t even have to leave your couch to do it!
While this is not an explicit “solution”, it’s important to know you are not alone. As I write this, I am looking out the window at a downpour, and despite it being mid-morning, it’s not really even light outside yet. If you have been beating yourself up for being low mood, low energy, or feeling “blah”, stop. Beating yourself up adds burden and heaviness on top of the already heavy energy. Drop that thought baggage, and you will automatically feel 10% lighter (at least).
We’re in this together! Create an account on humanest (only takes 2 minutes, and it’s free!) to connect with others and share in your self-care journey. Team up for success!
