Winter in the Midwest is no joke. Between the biting cold and the endless gray skies, I’ve faced the struggle of seasonal depression every year. I’ve always been open about it because I know how isolating it can feel to face winter’s challenges alone. While I once relied on medication to get me through the darker months, the side effects eventually became harder for me to manage. Now, I’ve developed my own routine to stay afloat and keep my mood stable through the longest, cold ass days.
One of my go-to routines is a short weekly visit to a tanning booth at Planet Fitness. I don’t use a tanning bed—I can thank Final Destination for that fear! Just a quick 3-4 minutes in a booth each week provides a little warmth and light, which really does wonders for my mood. And, yes, I keep it very brief to stay mindful of the risks.
Then, there are my daily cold-weather walks. As long as there’s daylight, I bundle up in my thermals and take a stroll with a cup of hot tea in hand. Lincoln Park and the lakefront are my favorites; the movement, the brisk air, and just being outside—even in the chill—make such a difference. There’s something refreshing about facing the cold head-on instead of hiding from it.
Exercise is also key for me. It’s one of the best ways to boost my energy and shake off that sluggish winter feeling. In addition, I get weekly acupuncture sessions, take B12 injections, and stay consistent with my vitamin D supplements. All of these help keep my energy and mood up when sunlight is scarce.
Diet also plays a big role. I plan meals and snacks to avoid energy dips, so I’m not battling that midday sluggishness. This way, I’m not only fighting the winter blues but also supporting my body with the nutrients it needs to stay resilient.
These habits keep me grounded and steady when the days feel long and dark. Winter may be tough, but with these small rituals, I’m learning to make it through one Midwest cold front at a time.
BRR,
Alejandra