When the time changes on the clocks this weekend, and the sun disappears early, I want to hibernate like a bear and not poke my head out until spring. The lack of light in Northeastern Ohio makes me feel tired all day despite ingesting vitamin D for years and exercising on a regular basis. 

To make the gray, cloudy days more bearable, I’m sharing a couple of personal suggestions that give me a little push when my energy level plummets. I hope these tips can help you as we wait patiently for an occasional day with bright, beautiful peaks of sunshine!

  1. Take a shower and get ready for your day even if you don’t plan on leaving your house or if you work from home. It sounds simple but I have more energy if I am cleaned, dressed, put on a quick coat of mascara and some pretty lip gloss. 
  1. Accomplish at least one small, 5-10 minute task out of your normal chore list. Whether it’s cleaning out a kitchen drawer, straightening out your purse, or wiping out your refrigerator, you will feel accomplished that you checked an extra job off your list! 
  1. Make it a point to go outside and breathe some fresh air. Even if it’s rainy, cold, or snowy, take a few minutes to look around and appreciate the weather as it is. This doesn’t include running into your office or the grocery store but really taking a quick moment away from your cell phone and letting go of the stress you may be feeling. 
  1. Take 15 minutes and do something for yourself that you enjoy. Even if you’re super busy, literally, set the timer on your phone, shut your bedroom or bathroom door, grab a book, a bottle of nail polish, or a snack and just chill. Everyone deserves 15 minutes a day to recharge their battery when the weather is bringing you down. 

If you live where natural light is at a minimum for a few months, I hope you try and make the best of it as our thoughts wander to little peaks of sunshine!