Beating the Winter Blahs

Anyone feeling the winter blahs yet?

After endless shovleing and scraping ice off everything, I know I can't be alone in wondering why I don't live in the Caribbean.

Here are a few quick and easy ideas to do inside and out of the house to lift your spirits.

Flowers
Your home may look like the Grinch came by the time you take down the tree and the decorations. Replace them with fresh flowers - preferably ones that remind you of spring, like tulips.

Hit the Gym
I know, you probably have this on your list anyway...but get the seratonin levels going. Because this blog is rated 'G', I won't get into details, but there are other physical activities you could be doing on a cold winters night for an even better effect...make the most of it!

Hot Yoga
It's true, I've done hot yoga. If you just want to feel the hot air on your skin and actually sweat instead of shiver from your environment, this is the activity for you. Not to mention the toxins from the holidays that you can get rid of at the same time! If you close your eyes and meditate you can actually pretend you are on a beach and someone is about to bring you a margarita any moment.

Get Out of the House
It's easy to take one look outside and turn back. Put your woolies on and get out to a museum, a bowling alley, and indoor driving range or tobogganing. Skating at Harbourfront Center is a blast, and hit the slopes for a great day of skiing or snowboarding. We're Canadian after all.

Tackle a Home Improvement Project
Maybe it's painting a room, or refinishing a lonely piece of furniture. Whatever your list includes, tackle it now.

Sign up for a Class
Is there something you've always wanted to learn? Kickboxing, art, music, cooking...whatever your hidden passion is, sign up for a regular class so you have something to get out to every week and connect with new people.

Help Others
If you're really feeling sorry for yourself, pull up your bootstraps and help someone in need. Nothing will lift your spirits faster. Shelters and food banks are especially in need this time of year. Call and volunteer or start your own campaign to collect food and blankets.

If none of these things work, just think of the excitement that buying a new home will bring :)

Cheers,
Mark