Winter has a way of causing a negative impact on a person’s spiritual, emotional, and mental health. Though it can often feel like the cold and dreary days will last forever, it is important to remember that spring is right around the corner. To prepare for the seasonal shift, you may want to engage in practices that can lift your spirits and put you in a better headspace. Review these ideas and find activities that will get you ready for the coming spring.
Clean Out Your Living Space
During the colder months of the year, many people spend a good chunk of their time indoors. When you’re constantly inside, it becomes easy to allow clutter to accumulate. Before the start of spring, you may find it helpful to clear out your living space. Use this time as an opportunity to get rid of junk or organize areas that have fallen into a state of disarray. Research highlights that a cluttered home can increase feelings of anxiety and make it harder to focus, so a little cleaning can go a long way toward your sense of wellness.
Free Your Mind
Your physical living space is not the only place that can benefit from decluttering. Throughout the winter, you may be prone to feelings of stress and depression. To work through these difficulties, consider practices that will free your mind from baggage. One way to accomplish this is by journaling. When you sit down and write out all of your thoughts, fears, and hopes, you can gain insight into your current mental state. Meditation is another helpful practice for clearing your mind, especially if you make it into a daily habit.
Focus on Flowers
Flowers are one of the most prominent symbols of springtime. Though it may still be a while before you start to see blossoms in nature, you can prepare for their arrival by adding a touch of color to your home. Floral prints are an excellent way to invoke the spirit of the season and put yourself in a happier mindset. If you have a green thumb, you can also plant seeds in your garden or in planters throughout your home to ensure a lush atmosphere in the coming months.
Let the Outside In
When the temperature drops, you likely blast the heat and keep all of your windows tightly shut. While this can make you feel cozy at times, it also creates stale and stagnant air in your space. On the first day you notice a bit of warmth outside, open all of your windows and let in the breeze. Even if you only do this for an hour, the fresh air will rejuvenate your home and boost your spirits. If it is still too cold outside for this, open your curtains or blinds and allow natural light to flood your space.
Set Spiritual Intentions
Experts in the field of mental health believe that having something to look forward to is one of the best ways to improve your emotional state. When your spirits are down, grab a pen and paper and jot down some of your intentions for the future. What do you hope to achieve when spring arrives? Are there places you would like to go? Do you have goals you’d like to reach in your professional or social spheres? Creating a list of intentions will help you set your sights on the horizon when you’re stuck in the doldrums of winter.
Though countless people feel listless and restless as the chill of winter persists, it is vital to remember that spring will return to the world once more. Commit to daily practices that boost your mood and learn how to reinvigorate your spirits before the seasonal shift.