Thriving with Joy Throughout the Extended Winter Darkness

Winter has arrived, bringing shorter days, colder weather, and plenty of reasons to stay inside. Unfortunately for many, it also means dealing with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). If winter’s gloom gets you down, try these cheerful tips to lift your spirits.

**Happy Tips**

1. **Watch hilarious cat videos on YouTube:** You’ll laugh, question who has the time to film their cats, and then probably start posting your own. It’s inevitable!

2. **Dance like there’s no tomorrow to music from your birth decade:** If that era is too dull, go for the ’80s. Want to make it even better? Dress in era-appropriate clothing, tube socks and all (yes, men too).

3. **Take a lunchtime walk and “accidentally” forget to go back to work:** Enjoy the sunlight while it lasts.

4. **Indulge in dark chocolate:** Enough said.

5. **Play “7 Degrees to [Insert Name Here]”, ideally with Kevin Bacon:** It’s surprisingly fun!

6. **Volunteer or do something kind for someone else:** Instant feel-good vibes.

7. **Get creative with your food:** Make faces with your spaghetti and meatballs or compete with friends to design the most creative lunch spread.

8. **Cuddle:** Cozy up on those cold, gloomy nights.

9. **Exercise and eat healthily:** This might be harder than the other tips, but it’s crucial for lasting happiness. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity (like a brisk walk or swimming) three times a week. Focus on lean proteins, whole grains, low-fat dairy, and five servings of fruits or vegetables daily.

10. **Reconnect with friends:** Sometimes, a pumpkin spice latte and an hour of chatting are all you need to feel rejuvenated.

11. **Dust off the old board games:** Remember the fun you used to have? Time to rediscover that joy away from screens.

12. **Rent a hilariously bad movie:** B horror movies are a great starting point. Ever seen “Killer Klowns from Outer Space”?

If these tips don’t help and you or a loved one feel overwhelmed by winter’s blues, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Seasonal Affective Disorder and other forms of depression are serious. If happiness seems out of reach, take action and show your symptoms who’s boss!