Summer is my favourite time of year so I’ve had to work really hard at making myself enjoy the winter and avoid the blues. The blues are when you just feel really sad and mopey, usually from being isolated inside or from the lack of daylight and sunshine. The blahs are when you just feel lazy and lethargic and would rather curl up on the couch with some hot cocoa and the latest Jennifer Lawrence flick than be productive at anything. It happens to all of us; yes, even fitness professionals. So what are some simple things you can do to help avoid this or pull yourself out of a cold, dark funk?

You do not need to be flexible or wear Lululemon gear to practice yoga or a dynamic stretching routine. If you took just a few minutes each day to focus on your breathing and relax the tension in your muscles, you’d be surprised how the mindfulness and increased blood flow can make you happier or calm your anxiety.

Drink more water. The hot summer sun and perspiration help remind us to drink water, but in the winter, people tend to go for hot cocoa, tea and coffee more often. We need about two to four litres a day of water for optimal hydration. Invest in a re-useable bottle that fits conveniently in your bag, purse or has an easy handle to carry and take it with you everywhere.

Schedule at least one outdoor activity each week. Bundle up and take in the crisp fresh air at an outdoor skating rink, sledding, skiing, winter hike or street hockey. A short 15 minute walk a few times a week will leave you feeling rejuvenated.

Download your favourite movie or show and bring your tablet to the gym to catch up on something that makes you feel happy. Use the free Wi-Fi at the Fanshawe Fitness Centre and stream episodes of a new show. You don’t have to go fast to be doing laps around the people sitting on the couch. If the show is really entertaining, you won’t even notice the rest.

Get out in the sun, or let it shine in on you. Sunlight increases the production of vitamin D which helps fight disease, boost mood, promotes weight loss and combats depression. It only take five to 15 minutes of exposure for three to five days per week to gain benefits.

Giving back is also a great way to feel warm and fuzzy in the winter. There are thousands of organizations and groups needing volunteers, so there is no excuse for your skills or lack-thereof. If you like to be active, you could help coach a kids sports team, dance or do some stretching with elderly at a seniors centre, residences, organize a running group, work in catering or events, be a part of a set up or tear down crew for concerts or help build homes.

Eat healthy, summery meals and say no thanks to the heavy, sugary, salty or fatty comfort foods. We keep our barbeque going all year long and I love a good summer salad in the winter. I like to eat these meals or snacks during the coldest blizzard and pretend I’m on a tropical island somewhere.

Happy New Year.