This Mood-Boosting Remedy May Be Just What You Need to Beat the Winter Blues

The winter blues is a mild, seasonal dip in mood that many experience during the colder months. It can bring on lower energy levels, make it harder to concentrate, increase appetite, and lead to oversleeping, sadness, and irritability.

Experts believe the reduced exposure to sunlight in winter disrupts circadian rhythm (our body’s internal clock) and affects the production of serotonin and melatonin—two hormones linked to our mood and how well we sleep. “When we lack natural sunlight in our daily lives, it becomes a ripple effect in the brain and body,” says Jennifer Walsh, a biophilic lifestylist and co-host of the podcast Biophilic Solutions. Focused on enhancing well-being by deepening the connection people have with the natural world, Walsh is on a mission to educate people on the restorative power of nature.

A Natural Mood Booster

Sunshine isn’t just warm and inviting—it’s also nature’s way of giving you a little boost of happiness. Soaking up the sun helps keep hormones in check, lifts your spirits, and keeps your body running smoothly. Ready to brighten your day? Here’s how to soak up those “feel-good” rays and boost your mood at the same time:

1. Get Outside, Even for a Few Minutes

Sunlight stimulates the brain to produce serotonin,the body’s natural mood regulator. Higher levels of serotonin are linked with improved mood, increased focus, and a sense of calm.

2. Open Your Blinds and Let the Light In

Natural light helps keep your body’s internal clock on track, regulating melatonin levels so you feel more energized during the day and sleep more soundly at night. A brighter space can lift your mood, boost productivity, and chase away those winter blues—so let the sunshine in.

3. Take a Morning Stroll

Lace up your shoes and soak in that early morning glow! A morning walk wakes up your body and helps synchronize your circadian rhythm, making it easier to fall asleep at night and stay energized throughout the day.

4. Play in the Snow

Don’t let the cold keep you inside—embrace it! Whether you’re hiking through a winter wonderland or hitting the slopes, outdoor activity under the sun can give you a much-needed boost. Movement triggers the release of endorphins, your body’s natural painkillers, and exposure to UVB rays helps your skin produce vitamin D, essential for strong bones, a healthy immune system, and a happy mind. Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to depression and fatigue. So, bundle up, get outside, and make some snow angels.

5. Plan a Sunny Getaway

If you’re feeling cooped up during winter, heading to a warmer destination can give you a healthy dose of sunshine, helping to improve your mood and vitamin D levels. A beach vacation or a sunny city break can work wonders for your mental and physical health.

“Sunshine is a non-negotiable in my life,” says Walsh. “If I know it is going to be an incredibly busy day, I schedule time outdoors or sit next to a window for a minimum of 30 minutes. Ideally, I like to start my day with the sunrise to set up my day in the most natural way possible. I know it is like taking a multivitamin each and every day.”

Explore sunny destinations across the Benchmark Resorts & Hotels portfolio.