Are you battling the winter blahs? Healthy You, UMR’s monthly source for health news provides 7 activities to boost your spirit! 

Winter always tends to bring on the blahs, and many people are feeling extra low these days thanks to COVID diagnoses, disrupted schedules and other pandemic-related problems. While they won’t solve the underlying issues you may be facing, here are 7 activities that may help improve your mood. 

Sip and savor. Instead of gulping down your daily cup of joe, tea or cocoa, take time to really experience it. Select your favorite mug. Stir in a special flavoring or sprinkle on a topping. Then find a quiet place to sit and enjoy each delicious sip. 

Take a scenic drive or hike. We’re all spending a lot of time at home right now. A change of scenery or connection with nature can improve your psychological well-being. 

Watch silly videos. From heartwarming animal clips to hilarious “Saturday Night Live” sketches, escaping reality via YouTube can help you harmlessly blow off some steam. 

Make a donation. Being generous can give you a “helper’s high,” whether it’s donating your gently used items, making a monetary donation, committing to a sponsorship or safely volunteering. 

Play in the snow. Working from home? Embrace your inner 10-year-old and take advantage of a snow-day break. Bonus: A snowball fight will release some endorphins – and give you an excuse to drink hot cocoa afterward. 

Create a paper chain. Remember those brightly colored construction paper looped chains you made in elementary school to count down to everything? Bust out the scissors and tape and make one for something you’re looking forward to – then tear off one strip each day. 

Bust out a board game. Dust off a classic like Clue or order something new like Exploding Kittens. Live alone? Engage in an online version with your friends and family or play over Zoom (we recommend Jackbox games).