It’s hard to be upbeat in winter when days are short, cold, and overcast. Sometimes you just want to stay in your pajamas and avoid going out. You’ve got the winter blues, and it’s going to take some self-discipline and recovery motivation to shake them off.
Being Active Is Key
You know from rehab and recovery therapy that filling your time with new interests and activities is important to staying on track. Being active is just as important when you have the winter blues. So, review your recovery goals, add some extra incentives, and set about losing the winter blues.
Goal #1: Keep to a structured schedule. Know ahead of time when you will go to bed, when you will rise, and when you will have your meals. Stick to your schedule and fill in extra slots with support meetings, coffee with a friend, or an hour to read a good book or write in a journal.
Goal #2: Take care of yourself. You may feel like lounging all day in your grubby sweats, but opt instead for the comfort of casual dress. Don’t neglect your personal hygiene, exercise, and meditation routines. This might be the time to treat yourself to something special—a day at the spa or a trip to a museum or art gallery.
Goal #3: Get outside and do something. Being outdoors is invigorating and gives you much-needed vitamin D. Build a snowman, shovel a neighbor’s driveway, or just go for a walk. Being outdoors and interacting with people is good for your body, mind, and soul.
Guiding Young Men & Women through Rehab to Recovery
Red Oak Recovery® is a unique North Carolina treatment center for young people ages 18 to 30. Combining recreational therapy, clinical treatment, and healthy nutrition into gender specific programs, our licensed staff will tailor a treatment program to your individual needs. Ready to begin recovery for you or a loved one? Call 866.831.9107 today to start the admissions process and inquire about insurance coverage and affordable self-pay options.
