1.21.2019

5 Mistakes You Make During Winter that Prevent Happiness




The dredges of winter can be a difficult time for many. Shorter days, dropping temperatures and bothersome conditions all contribute to fatigue. Another detrimental side effect of the winter season can be seasonal affective disorder, communicated by the spot-on acronym SAD. 

Seasonal effective disorder is an extremely common condition with more than 3 million people suffering each year. Symptoms often include depression, sadness, weight gain, excess sleepiness and fatigue.

There are many ways to combat these symptoms, however, countless people continue to agonize their way through winter. There’s one popular Scandinavian trend that may give you all the answers and save a lot of heartache: hygge. 

Hygge (pronounced hoo-gah) is a Danish principle that encompasses coziness through simplicity and contentment. Most recently, hygge has transformed into a practical lifestyle that is often utilized during colder seasons as a way to beat cabin fever. 

So, what exactly are we doing to exacerbate the winter blues? Use these helpful hints to recognize mistakes in your behavior that may contribute to a SAD season. 

1. Restless Sleep

Not getting enough sleep is a common problem many people suffer from. A lack of restful zzz’s can be annoying during other seasons, but during winter it can have a serious effect on both mental and physical health. 

Make sure your mattress is comfortable and supportive to ensure you’re not tossing and turning at night. There are plenty of great choices for mattresses you can find online so choose something that is both high quality and affordable. 

2. Closing Off From Light

As much as you may think, you are not capable of enclosing yourself in a cave (or pillow fort for that matter) only to emerge when spring flowers begin to bloom. Open up the shades and soak in the natural light. 

Keep candles close by to fill your home with your favorite scent. Use soft lighting at night to create an atmosphere worthy of repetition. Twinkle lights are an amazing way to create a mood that is both comfy and calming. 

3. Forgetting About Self-Care

Your mind is not the only thing that takes a beating during winter. Make sure to take care of your body as well. A great way to do this is to focus on your skin. Your skin is the largest organ in your body yet often overlooked when one considers health. 

Keep your skin soft and supple with a hydrating cream. Focus on your feet and face as problem areas that experience the most wear and tear during cold seasons. With a healthy moisturizing routine, you’re sure to keep detrimental SAD symptoms at bay. 

4. Hibernating

Save it for the bears. It’s important to get fresh air, especially on days with plenty of sunshine. Take the dog for a walk, go for a jog or simple sit on the porch with a warm blanket a cup of coffee. Whatever your preference, your body and mind will thank you.

Stay active and take advantage of this time by incorporating some great ideas to aid in self-improvement

5. Living Under A Rock

Winter is a time when many people hoard themselves indoors without any consideration for positive human interaction. A major principle of hygge is companionship. Open your doors to friends and loved ones to keep conversation flowing. 

Considering hosting hygge dinner parties or book clubs once a month. Connecting with others (and complaining about the current weather conditions) is a great way to interact and stimulate the mind. 

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