Alberta winters certainly leave something to be desired when you leave work at 4pm and it’s already dark. Cold temperatures and days without sun are enough to drag even the most cheerful folk down. But, unless you are fortunate enough to escape to the tropics for five months of the year, it’s unavoidable. So, if you’re stuck in Edmonton for the next few freezing months, here are some helpful tips to help boost your mood and beat the winter blues.

1. Happy Art

Adding art to your home is a great way to change its appearance and overall feel. Choose a work of art or picture that makes you smile and put it where you can see it every day. This is likely to be the living room, but also consider your bedroom or bathroom.  Every time you see your special piece, it will make you smile and lift your mood.

2. Pop Of Colour

We all have a favourite colour. Did you know they can also be a mood-changer? If you’re feeling down and have low energy, consider adding some mood-affecting colour to your home. For example, you can pick one wall to paint a calming blue. Or, if you want some energy in your home, purchase some red appliances or accent furniture. These small changes are sure to help you feel better.

3. Humidifier

A humidifier is a great way to help you feel better. These small machines add moisture to the air which prevents dryness that can cause irritation in many parts of the body. Humidifiers are an effective tool for treating dry skin, nose, throat, and other areas. Feeling healthy means feeling happy!

4. UV Lamp

We all know Alberta’s winter days are short and the nights are long. Did you know the lack of UV lighting might be affecting your mood? Consider getting a UV light, as they reproduce the effect of the sun. These lights help boost your body’s vitamin D production - which is known to strengthen bones, muscles, and the body’s immune system. UV light is also known to help improve your mood by helping your brain produce tryptamine (a happy brain chemical).

5. Try Something New

There are many things that can be done indoors during the long winter months. There is nothing like trying a new hobby to change your mood. Maybe try your hand at cooking or colouring. You may uncover a hidden talent you didn’t even know existed!

6. Find Your Inner Zen

Doesn't the idea of 20 minutes of peaceful silence sound good to you? That's exactly what meditation gives you - peace and quiet. With the countless benefits of meditation, you’re sure to feel the uplifting effects.

7. Sweat Out It Out

Exercise is a great way to reduce stress and boost endorphins. Not only will exercise help you feel better, it will also make you healthier. This could mean a trip to the gym for some intense aerobic activity or a quick walk with the dog - you’re sure to feel better once you get moving.

8. Throw A Party

Inviting your friends over is a surefire way to beat the winter blues. Consider throwing a get-together or party. Great memories can be made by playing old school board games or singing karaoke.

9. Plan A Vacation

Spend some time planning a dream vacation. It could be a tropical island with warm sand and clear blue water, or maybe it’s a trip to Paris to see the Eiffel Tower. Not only will this help distract you from the cold weather outside, it will also motivate you to start saving for your ideal getaway.

10. Rearrange Your Furniture

Sometimes all it takes to boost your mood is one small change. For example, simple yet noticeable changes around the house can easily be made by moving furniture around or adding a new piece. Rearranging your furniture will make your home look different and may even give you more functional space.

11. Cook Up a Storm

A great way to combat winter and keep warm is to turn on the oven and get cooking. Not only will it warm up your home, eating improves our moods, especially when meals are healthy. Take some time to prepare meals ahead of time for your family and have soup in the crockpot for those extra chilly nights.

12. Cozy Up

Keeping warm and cozy is an effective way to beat the winter blues because, well, it just feels nice. Snuggle up with a bathrobe, slippers, and a blanket. Don't forget to turn on your fireplace. And while you're sitting in front of the fire...

13. Find a Good Book

Consider reading a book to make you happier. If you love to read, changing your mood is as easy as downloading a great work of fiction or thriller. Immerse yourself in your favourite genre and give yourself a distraction from the weather outside.

Alberta winters might not always be the nicest but that doesn’t mean you have to feel defeated by the weather. By following any (or all) of the tips above over the next few months, you'll feel happier and summer will be here before you know it!

Looking for more ideas to help get you through the winter months? Check out our post, 10 Snow Day Activities To Do At Home for some other ideas!

Photo credits: sitting by fireplace, friends playing card game, colourful living room