12 Ways to Beat the November Blues and Stay Positive

As the days grow shorter and the weather turns colder, it can be easy to feel down during the fall season. However, with the right mindset and a few simple changes, it’s possible to stay positive and energized throughout November. From prioritizing self-care to staying active and connected, there are plenty of ways to lift your spirits and maintain a sense of well-being. Focus on creating a comforting environment, practicing mindfulness, and embracing activities that bring you joy.

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Get Outside, Even When It’s Cold

Even though the November weather can be dreary, making an effort to get outside each day can have a significant impact on your mood. Even a short walk or a quick jog in the fresh air can do wonders for your mental and physical well-being. The lack of sunlight in November can lead to a drop in serotonin levels, but exposure to daylight, even if brief, can help counteract this. Getting outside also allows you to soak up some natural light, which is important for regulating your body’s circadian rhythm and preventing feelings of fatigue and sluggishness.

Try to make outdoor activities part of your routine, even if it means bundling up in layers and wearing a hat and scarf. Taking a brisk walk around the block or hiking through a park can give you a much-needed break from the indoors. The simple act of being in nature, surrounded by trees and open spaces, helps clear your mind and provides a sense of calm. Don’t forget to also take advantage of seasonal activities like winter hikes, ice skating, or even just sitting outside with a warm drink and enjoying the crisp air. Nature has a calming, healing effect, helping to reduce feelings of anxiety and stress that can come with the change of season.

Practice Mindfulness and Meditation

November can be a stressful time, especially with the holidays fast approaching. Practicing mindfulness and meditation can help you navigate the season with a sense of calm and balance. Mindfulness simply means being present in the moment, fully engaging with what you’re doing without judgment or distraction. Taking a few minutes each day to meditate can help ground you, improve your focus, and reduce the overwhelming feelings that might arise from a busy schedule or negative thoughts.

You don’t need a long time to start seeing the benefits; just five to ten minutes of deep breathing or focusing on the present moment can help reduce stress and improve your mental clarity. Guided meditation apps can also be a great way to get started, as they offer short sessions with simple instructions for beginners. Meditation doesn’t have to happen in a quiet room, either. You can practice mindfulness while walking, eating, or even doing chores like washing dishes or folding laundry. The key is to stay aware of your surroundings and how you feel in the present moment, rather than worrying about the past or future.

Stay Active with Exercise

Exercise is one of the best ways to combat the November blues. The colder months might make it more difficult to stay motivated to work out, but regular physical activity can greatly improve your mood, energy levels, and mental clarity. Whether it’s a quick home workout, yoga session, or a run around the neighborhood, physical activity helps release endorphins, which are the body’s natural mood boosters.

If going outside feels too cold or intimidating, try setting up an exercise routine at home. Many online videos, apps, and tutorials can help guide you through workouts that don’t require much equipment. Even stretching, dancing, or doing bodyweight exercises like squats and push-ups can get your blood flowing and keep your energy up. The key is consistency; making time each day, even for a short workout, helps to keep your body and mind in a positive space. Regular exercise can help you feel accomplished, maintain your fitness, and improve your sleep quality.

Engage in Hobbies You Love

When the days get shorter and the weather turns colder, it’s easy to retreat indoors. This is a great opportunity to spend time focusing on hobbies and activities that bring you joy. Whether it’s reading, knitting, painting, or cooking, engaging in creative or relaxing activities helps reduce stress and boosts overall happiness. These hobbies can provide a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment, which is especially important during a time when you may feel drained from the demands of work and social obligations.

If you’ve been meaning to try something new, now is the perfect time. You could start learning a new skill, like photography, baking, or even starting a journal. Getting into a hobby you enjoy also encourages you to slow down and create moments of peace, which is vital when life can feel overwhelming. Dedicate some time each week to dive into these activities, whether it’s a quiet hour in the evening or a weekend project, and you’ll find it’s a great way to keep your mind engaged and help alleviate the stresses of the season.

Maintain Social Connections

During the colder months, it can be easy to isolate yourself and retreat indoors. However, maintaining social connections is essential for your mental health. Whether it’s through phone calls, video chats, or safely meeting up in person, staying connected with friends and family can help you feel supported and lessen feelings of loneliness or isolation. Social interaction is key to improving your mood, providing emotional support, and creating a sense of belonging.

Try to make a regular effort to check in with loved ones, even if it’s just a quick message or a casual phone call. Plan a virtual movie night or a game session with friends to stay connected. If the weather permits, meeting up outdoors for a walk or coffee can be refreshing and uplifting. Even small gestures, like sending a handwritten note or sharing a funny story, can help maintain meaningful relationships. These social connections are a vital part of staying positive, especially during the colder, quieter months of November.

Create a Comforting Environment

One of the most important things you can do to beat the November blues is to create an environment that feels cozy, welcoming, and comforting. As the days get shorter, it’s essential to have a space that feels warm and relaxing. Simple things like lighting candles, arranging throw blankets, or adding soft pillows to your couch can help make your space feel inviting and comforting. Lighting is especially important; opt for soft, warm lights instead of harsh overhead lighting, which can sometimes feel cold and uninviting.

You can also bring a sense of comfort by indulging in seasonal scents like cinnamon, pumpkin, or lavender. Essential oils, candles, or even baking your favorite fall recipes can create a cozy atmosphere. Rituals like making a hot cup of tea or curling up with a good book can provide moments of peace and relaxation. A comforting environment can reduce feelings of stress and encourage a sense of tranquility, making it easier to unwind after a long day.

Prioritize Good Sleep Hygiene

Quality sleep is often overlooked, but it plays a crucial role in combating the November blues. Poor sleep can affect your mood, energy levels, and overall well-being. To maintain a positive mindset, it’s essential to prioritize good sleep hygiene. Start by establishing a consistent sleep schedule, going to bed and waking up at the same time each day to regulate your body’s internal clock. Avoid screens like phones, tablets, and computers at least an hour before bed to give your brain time to wind down.

Create a calming bedtime routine to signal to your body that it’s time to relax. Consider reading a book, taking a warm bath, or practicing relaxation exercises before heading to bed. Keeping your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet can also improve the quality of your sleep. A good night’s rest will help you feel more energized and better able to tackle the challenges of the day ahead.

Eat Well to Nourish Your Body and Mind

What you eat has a direct impact on your mood and energy levels, so maintaining a balanced diet is essential during November. The colder weather often brings cravings for comfort foods, but try to focus on nutrient-rich options that will give you lasting energy and improve your mental clarity. Incorporating foods like leafy greens, nuts, whole grains, and omega-3-rich fish can provide important nutrients to support your brain health and emotional well-being. Avoid excessive sugar or caffeine, which can lead to energy crashes and affect your mood.

Also, try meal prepping and cooking warm, hearty meals that make you feel good. Soups, stews, and roasted vegetables are great for staying cozy while nourishing your body. Eating mindfully and paying attention to portion sizes can help maintain your energy levels throughout the day, preventing any dips that might trigger negative thoughts. Don’t forget to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, as dehydration can also contribute to feelings of sluggishness.

Start a Gratitude Journal

Practicing gratitude is a simple yet powerful way to combat the November blues. Taking a few minutes each day to jot down what you’re grateful for can help shift your focus away from negative thoughts and encourage a more positive outlook. You don’t need to write long entries; just a few sentences acknowledging the small joys in your day can make a big difference. Research shows that regular gratitude practice can improve mood, reduce stress, and even enhance sleep quality.

You can start your gratitude practice by writing in a journal each morning or evening. Reflect on the things that bring you happiness, whether it’s a supportive friend, a peaceful walk outside, or a delicious meal. Over time, you’ll start to notice how these positive moments accumulate, helping you feel more connected to the present and less overwhelmed by the challenges around you. Make this a daily habit to help maintain a sense of balance and contentment, especially during the darker months.

Indulge in Seasonal Activities

November is a great time to immerse yourself in the seasonal activities that bring comfort and joy. Fall festivals, pumpkin carving, or visiting a local market for seasonal produce can help you embrace the warmth and beauty of the season. Even if you’re not into big events, smaller activities like baking pumpkin bread, crafting fall wreaths, or preparing your home for the holidays can lift your spirits and give you something to look forward to.

Engaging in these activities helps you get into the spirit of the season while keeping your mind occupied with positive, creative tasks. Seasonal traditions, like putting up decorations or making cozy drinks like hot cider or hot chocolate, can also help create a sense of excitement and joy. These rituals, big or small, contribute to your well-being by providing comfort, encouraging you to slow down, and connecting you to the present moment.

Stay Connected with Loved Ones

During the colder months, it’s easy to retreat into your own space, but maintaining strong connections with family and friends is essential for staying positive. Socializing, even in small ways, can provide emotional support, laughter, and a sense of belonging. Plan regular check-ins with loved ones, whether through phone calls, video chats, or small get-togethers. Even a simple text or a shared meme can help lift your mood and remind you that you are not alone.

Consider organizing a small gathering with close friends or family, whether it’s for a cozy dinner, a game night, or a simple walk through the park. If you are unable to meet in person, sending handwritten letters, making surprise phone calls, or planning virtual catch-ups can help maintain the connection. Feeling supported by others, especially during the colder months, plays a significant role in keeping your spirits high and preventing feelings of isolation.

Establish Cozy Rituals for Comfort

Creating simple, comforting rituals can help you feel more grounded and connected during the colder months. Whether it’s lighting a favorite candle, preparing a warm drink like tea or cocoa, or listening to calming music in the evening, these small habits can bring a sense of peace to your routine. Consider establishing a ritual that you can look forward to every day or week, such as a Sunday evening bath, a morning walk, or enjoying a good book before bed.

These rituals help you slow down, focus on self-care, and create a sense of comfort. They also help signal to your body and mind that it’s time to relax and recharge, which is especially important during the busy, stressful holiday season. Consistency in these comforting activities offers a steady source of joy and relaxation, making it easier to cope with the challenges of November.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.