5 Simple Ways To Shake Off The Winter Blues

Are you feeling the winter blues? February tends to be the most depressing month of the year.
However, there are a few simple ways to shake off the blahs, stay happy and feel less deflated this winter. 

1. Create A Beachy Mood Music Playlist 
We know it can be boring and frustrating walking or waiting in the cold but if you are listening to music that reminds you of a fun beach or summer day, it makes it way more enjoyable and bearable. 
This month we picked "Summer Saudade" by Calamity Jade for our playlist. It's an eclectic mix blending classic bossanova and new batucada funk and sweet samba. Hopefully that will put a bit of heat back into your winter. 

2. Get Out In The Sun.
You already knew that a stroll outside on a beautiful day is a good thing. Breathe in the brisk air and see your warm breath when it hits the cold. Say "Hello" to the sun. Studies have shown that exposure to the sun aids your brain in the production of serotonin, a chemical that acts as a natural antidepressant. If you need a stronger dose, a mid-season vacation to a warmer climate might be the boost you need to see you through to spring. 

3. Jazz Up Your Outfit
Winter is all about embracing layers, thick materials like wool, acrylic and other knitted accessories. Sometimes this means sacrificing style for warmth, but that doesn't mean you can’t jazz up your outfit with bright colours and add up some cool accessories. When you feel tired or down, even a few breaths of colour will give you what you need. We realized that colour does change your life in wonderfully positive ways. 
Dare to be colourful! Dare to feel great!

4. Keep Your Mood Lifted with Wintertime Yoga
Don’t let the worst of the winter months get the best of you. You are responsible for your own happiness, so take charge, relax and let go. This month we asked Pam Condotta, Toronto based Yoga expert, to show us the best way to recharge and keep our mood lifted with "Yoga for Energy"

5. Stay Social
Though it’s tempting to hibernate and avoid going out completely in the winter. Force yourself to go out and maintain your social activities. Instead of lolling around on your couch marathoning Game of Thrones, 
why don't you organize a fun movie night with your friends. Perhaps a Mexican themed movie potluck with "Nacho Libre" or "Y Tu Mama Tambien" . Another fun social activity is to host our Trunk Show.

These simple tips help you to not only get outside of yourself but also help you get more involved with others. Not only will you increase your own happiness, but this will encourage those around you to do the same.
Remember good vibes are contagious!

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