5 Ideas to get Through the Extra 6 Weeks of Winter *Beat the Winter Blues*

Well, The Groundhog saw his shadow, and we all know what that means-six extra weeks of winter. Up until this point I have really enjoyed the woes of winter, the blustery nights that give the perfect excuse to stay in, hot cocoa, bubble baths, beautiful scenery after a snow storm, but now I'm sort of hitting a wall. The few days the sun shines are really putting me in a mood for spring and after hearing the news, that according to a ground hog, spring is further away than expected...I'm really having to work at keeping the winter blues away. I have come up with five simple ideas to keep my spirits up and the thought of new hope in the spring, close to me. 

Step One: Create a summer/spring/inspiration board on pinterest. If you don't have a pinterest search like images on Google and save them to a file in your computer to look at whenever you're suffering from the "winter blues". Fill the folder or board with pictures of beaches, sunshine, things you want to do in the warmer months, and inspirational quotes. A simple, quick thing to do that can be added to at any time. You can even take the photos and quotes and make a collage to print off and hang somewhere, or make it your desktop background at work or school. 

Step Two: Treat yourself. Get your toes done in a hot pink polish with those tiny tropical flowers added on. Nothing says summer like a pedicure. If you don't want to spend the money invite some girl friends over and have a DIY spa night with fruity drinks and give each other pedicures. It will lift your spirits and help you forget about the blowing winds and drifting snow outside of your door. 

Step Three: Stay active. I know, I know, winter is for sweats and the couch. But honestly, you know how great you feel after a workout! I'm not saying go for a run, or do a giant workout. But some squats during a commercial break or a light walk on your lunch break, in the halls of work, or outside, is doable. If it's too cold, stay inside, if the temperatures are safe and halfway manageable, bundle up and get some fresh air! 

Step Four: Find a hobby or activity to get you through. Whether it is an indoor activity such as knitting or scrapbooking, or an outdoor one like skiing or snowmobiling, find something to pass the time. Find something you enjoy doing in the winter time so you are not bored and wishing time away. This will not only give you something to look forward to, but also keep you physically and mentally healthy. 

Step Five: Embrace it. Take it in. Enjoy the time. Drink hot cocoa, snuggle under blankets, binge on Netflix. Learn to ski. Find a way to not wish the time away. Life already goes too quickly. The last thing we need to do is constantly wish for months down the road. Winter is not so bad when you look out the window and instead of saying, "Ugh, it's snowing", you say, "Look at the beautiful way the snow sparkles as it falls". It's the little things in life. Take it in and enjoy it. 

XOXO