Pushing Away “Winter Blues”

Fall is here! Bring out the Pumpkin Spice Lattes, cozy sweaters, and colorful leaves! This is one of our favorite seasons here at the office!

However, with Fall here, days are beginning to get shorter, vacations are nearing their end, and normalcy is picking back up. So, we’ve compiled a few ideas to stay positive and push away “winter blues.”

Get Outside

One of the best ways to fight the winter blues is by getting outside! Soak up the sun! With our area’s moderate temperatures, hiking, biking, and walking are all great exercises while enjoying the outdoors.

Here are a few moderate to challenging hikes in the Prescott area:

• Thumb Butte:  At an elevation of over 6,318 feet, Thumb Butte is one of the most popular trails in Prescott.
• Granite Mountain Trail #261: This moderate to challenging 7+ mile hike will take you through some of Prescott’s most scenic terrain.
• Iron King Trail: This 4-mile hike in Prescott Valley, AZ, is considered easy to moderate in difficulty.
• Peavine Trail: Located in Prescott Valley, AZ, the Peavine is a 6-mile hike with breathtaking views of Watson Lake and the Granite Dells. The trail is considered easy to moderate, with a few challenging sections.

Make Sure You Move

If you can’t get outside to exercise, that’s okay! Just make sure you’re moving your body in some way every day. Watch a workout video online, or dance around your house! Anything to get your heart rate up.

Start a Gratitude Journal

One way to keep your spirits up is by practicing gratitude. It can be anything from your bed, to your cat, to a great cup of coffee. Every day, write down 3-5 things you’re grateful for in a journal. Not only will this make you more mindful of the positive things in your life, but it will also help train your brain to focus on the good instead of the bad.

Take Time Away from the News

It’s easy to get bogged down by the negativity in the news. If you’re feeling extra stressed or anxious, take a break! This may include taking a break from social media, news sites, or anything else causing you anxiety.

Connect With Friends and Family

Connecting with loved ones is one of the best ways to fight the winter blues. Whether you’re catching up on the phone, meeting up for coffee, or sending a handwritten letter, taking the time to connect with those you care about will help boost your mood and remind you that you’re not alone.

Laugh

Laughter really is the best medicine. Whether watching a funny movie, reading a hilarious book, or spending time with friends and family, laughter can help reduce stress, ease anxiety, and boost your mood.

What are some of your favorite ways to stay positive during the fall and winter months? Please share them with us!