6 Tips on How to Beat the Winter "Blues" as a Family

Do you or your family ever feel down or gloomy when winter comes around? If so, you’re not alone. According to an article by the Cleveland Clinic, up to 20% of Americans experience the same. It’s commonly called “the winter blues”, and it typically corresponds with seasonal patterns that occur during the colder and darker months of the year. Some common symptoms of the winter blues include low mood, lack of energy, difficulty sleeping, and boredom.

But don’t worry; winter doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom. There are plenty of ways to cheer yourself and your family up this season. Here are some ideas to help you and your loved ones beat the winter blues and enjoy this cozy and festive time of year.

#1 Get Enough Light

One of the main causes of the winter blues is a lack of exposure to natural sunlight. The lack of light affects the production of serotonin and melatonin, two hormones that regulate mood and sleep. To combat this, try to get at least 30 minutes of sunlight every day, preferably in the morning.

But if there isn’t that much sunshine in your area during the winter, light therapy can help. It uses artificial light sources, such as UV light therapy lamps, to mimic the effects of natural light. Under multiple scientific tests, it has been shown to be effective in treating the winter blues. Definitely consult your doctor if you’d like to try it.

#2 Stay Active

Physical activity is another way to boost your mood and energy levels as well as your physical health. Exercise releases endorphins, known as the “happiness hormones”. You can also try to incorporate fun activities into your family time during winter. Great options are sledding, skating, snowshoeing, or skiing.

#3 Keep a Regular Schedule

Having a consistent routine can help you maintain a sense of normalcy and stability during the winter months. The easiest way to achieve this is to wake up and go to bed at the same time every day. Sticking to a regular schedule can help you regulate your circadian rhythm, which is your body’s internal clock that affects your sleep and mood.

#4 Socialize with Others

Social isolation can worsen the winter blues. We’re social creatures who need interaction and support from others. Try to stay in touch with your friends and family, either in person or through phone calls, video chats, or social media. You can also join a club, take a class, or contribute to a volunteer group to meet new people and share your interests. Socializing is essential during the winter, as it can help you feel less lonely and more connected.

#5 Start New Winter Traditions

Winter can also be a time to celebrate and create memories with your family. You can start a new tradition that suits your family, such as baking cookies, watching movies, playing games, or reading books. You could also show your love in a more lasting way; the Add-A-Pearl tradition is ideal for this. You and your family could share Add-a-Pearl necklaces to symbolize your family’s love, growth, and support winter after winter.

#6 Travel to Warmer Lands

Another way to beat the winter blues is to travel to warmer states or countries where you can enjoy the sun and the sea. Traveling can be a great way to break the monotony of winter and experience new cultures.

Here are our suggestions for warm winter destinations that you can visit with your family this winter:

Beautiful US States to Visit with Your Family This Winter

• Arizona. Arizona is one of the warmest US states in the winter, with average temperatures ranging from 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. You can explore the stunning landscapes of the Grand Canyon, the Sonoran Desert, and the Sedona Red Rocks. Arizona is also a great place for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, golfing, and horseback riding.
  California. California is another state that offers pleasant weather all year round, especially on the central and south coasts. You can visit San Diego, Los Angeles, Long Beach, Santa Maria, or Santa Barbara, where you can enjoy the beaches, parks, and attractions.
• Hawaii. Hawaii is the ultimate tropical paradise, with its lush greenery, volcanic mountains, and crystal-clear waters. You can visit any of the eight main islands, each with its own charm and personality. It’s perfect to experience the aloha spirit and the rich Hawaiian culture with your family.

Great International Destinations to Escape the Winter Blues

• Malta. Malta is a small island nation in the Mediterranean Sea, with a mild and sunny climate. You and your family could enjoy the scenic coastline, the rocky coves, and the sandy beaches. Malta is also a great place for nightlife, shopping, and gastronomy.
• Thailand. Thailand offers various attractions, from bustling cities to serene temples, from lush jungles to pristine beaches. You can visit Bangkok, the capital, where you can experience the vibrant culture, cuisine, and nightlife. You can also visit Chiang Mai, the northern city, where you can explore the ancient temples, the elephant sanctuaries, and the hill tribes. Thailand is also a very affordable destination, with low prices for accommodation, food, and transportation.
• Morocco. Morocco is a North African country that offers a mix of Arab, Berber, and French influences, creating a unique and diverse culture. You can visit Marrakech, the imperial city, where you can wander the colorful souks, the lively squares, and the majestic palaces. You can also visit Fez, the medieval city, where you can admire the intricate architecture, the leather tanneries, and the oldest university in the world.

Just remember, winter is here, and it can be a wonderful time of the year, especially when we have our family’s love and support to help us through it. Follow these tips to cope with the winter blues and have fun winter activities with your family.

If you'd like to explore building a new family tradition further, visit this page to learn more about the Add-A-Pearl process. If creating a new necklace for a loved one sounds appealing to you, then you can begin choosing materials and pearls here. We don't have scientific studies about the effect of Add-A-Pearl on the winter blues, but anecdotal evidence suggests that shopping for something meaningful is an excellent cure.