I’ve always been a summer-and-fall girlie. Every year, I try to convince myself that I can also be a winter gal—but once Christmas is over and the days turn freezing and gray, without the sparkle and cheer, I’m quickly reminded that winter just isn’t my season. And to make matters worse, a groundhog named Phil wakes up once a year to decide whether we have to tough it out for more weeks of winter or slide right into spring. If you haven’t heard, Phil saw his shadow this year…which means six more weeks of winter- and the winter blues.
This winter, I’ve been really intentional about doing things that help keep the winter blues away. So if you’re feeling it too, here are four simple ways to keep the winter blues at bay.
Get Outside and Go for a Daily Walk
One of the easiest ways to beat the winter blues is by getting outside and walking. While a treadmill has its place, walking outdoors offers added benefits—especially in the winter. Exposure to natural daylight can boost your mood and help reduce symptoms of depression. I love using my daily walk as uninterrupted time to connect with myself, talk with God, or listen to a podcast without constant distractions.
Best places to walk in Houston: Memorial Park and the Houston Arboretum
Read Instead of Scroll Before Bed
When I’m feeling anxious, I usually do two things: eat way too much candy and read—one of those habits is healthier than the other. Reading, especially a book with more drama than my own life, helps me settle down by giving me a much-needed escape from reality. During the winter months, reading is especially helpful because it calms the mind, reduces anxiety, and gives your brain a break from constant digital noise—making it a simple but powerful way to fight the winter blues.
Favorite read: The Housemaid by Frieda McFadden . Read this thrilling novel and then catch the adapted film featuring Sydney Sweeney.
Tackle a Home Project
We’re about 40 days into the new year, which means many of us are still working hard to stick to our goals, intentions, and resolutions. Winter is the perfect time to organize your home and reset your space. A tidy house can bring both physical order and mental clarity. Whether it’s organizing a closet, starting a DIY project, or finally finishing something you’ve been putting off, completing a project shifts your focus from gloomy weather to something productive.
This winter, I’m focusing on organizing my closet—letting go of items I haven’t worn in over a decade and making room for all the cute spring shopping I plan to do. Seeing tangible progress boosts motivation and mood, and it keeps both your hands and mind busy during long winter days at home.
Favorite organizations to donate to: Memorial Assistance Ministries (MAM) located at 1625 Blalock Rd & 1015 E. 11th Street
Stay Connected: Schedule Mommy & Friend “Play Dates”
When the days feel shorter and colder, nothing beats the winter blues quite like quality time with friends. Whether it’s a coffee date, a walk, or a girls’ night in, social connection helps reduce feelings of isolation and reminds you that you’re not alone. I love putting girlfriend dates on the calendar—even once a month—to have something fun to look forward to during the dreary season. That intentional time together always feels like a mental reset.
Tip: At the end of every “mommy and friend play date”, pull out your calendars and schedule the next one. Having something on the calendar gives everyone something to look forward to.
Winter may not be my favorite season, but I’ve learned that how we move through it matters. By being intentional with small, simple habits—getting outside, reading more, organizing our spaces, and staying connected with friends; we can protect our mental health and find moments of joy. If you’re feeling the mid-winter blues creeping in, know you’re not alone, and you don’t have to overhaul your life to feel better. Sometimes, it’s the little things done consistently that make all the difference until spring finally arrives.
