In the United States, we have what is called 'seasonal affective disorder.' For an easier explanation, such a symptom is called the winter blues. Lack of sunshine during the dreary days and nights of winter are at fault basically. So, why is this being brought up? Writers. Writers are at the mercy of a desk most of the time, surrounded by four (4) walls and, if lucky, a window. But, there is something we can do to get through this. It is called hygge. A Danish term for creating a way to cope with their lengthy falls and winters. Often termed a “sanctuary,” Hygge is pronounced “hoo-guh”. So, the following are ways to help you to get through a bleak winter, especially as a writer.

Take advantage of the seasonal drink we love - hot chocolate or even homemade coffee mocha. Create a hot chocolate/coffee station. There are tons of recipes on YouTube for both. Feed the birds outside one of your windows. Buy and wear some comfy flannel shirts. Work in your jammies. Take a free online class. Buy some indoor plants. Give hugs freely. Buy a sun lamp. Apply fake tan lotion or spray. Wear cute thermals. Start a new blog with blogger. Use your Crock-Pot for some comfort food. Color in coloring books, where studies show stress is reduced. Help out a neighbor, either with shoveling their snow, a meal or baked goods.  Send unique Christmas cards. Play music or white noise, depending on your mood, whether from rock to a soothing fan. Have a spa night, consisting of a bubble bath and mani/pedi. Invest in thick, warm blankets and fluffy pillows. Use a diffuser with comforting smells. Have Christmas lights/fairy lights everywhere. Decorate for Christmas early and undecorate late. Find a new hobby. Utilize the public library for new and interesting magazines. Exercise to get those feel-good endorphins flowing, either inside or outside. Clean and declutter your house, then donate what you do not need to charity. If you believe in a higher power, pray or meditate, whether daily inspirations, the Psalms, etc. Get some fresh air. Consider taking a vitamin and mineral supplement. Host a potluck or a specific party, such as games or swaps. Clip coupons and shop sales for a little retail therapy. Why not search online for a pen pal and polish up on a foreign language?  

Furthermore, be grateful that you are a writer. There are people out there who do not know how to write or read. Maybe volunteer to teach or tutor a person how to write and read in English. Also, be thankful for your everyday routines, from the sound of the morning traffic while making your morning coffee and breakfast to the frustration we get when a writing project is not going our way. There is a person out there that would love your job.

So, if the winter blues get to you, remember the Danish hygge, where the sunset happens at 4 pm yet the Danes love life.