This post is all about how to beat winter blues.
While it’s the best time of year for cozy movie nights, hot tea, and curling up by the fire, the winter blues wait for no one. Seasons affective disorder can come for anyone, so let’s help you keep it at bay.
1. Pilates
Winter blues are not match for this fitness routine
Now, I know what you’re thinking. Isn’t pilates expensive?
The truth is: it can be, but it definitely doesn’t HAVE to be.
While a single in-person reformer or mat class can run you anywhere from $20 to $80, there are a lot of online options that are much more affordable! Not only are they easier on the wallet, you can stay nice and warm, exercising in the comfort of your own home. For an introvert like myself, this is music to my ears.
Below I’ve linked a few channels that offer excellent pilates videos that can fit in anyones schedules.
2. Stretching
As simple as it is, I feel like this is one of those things that we often don’t make time for, but makes us feel so good when we do. As someone who is always looking for joint pain relief, specifically knee pain relief or hip pain relief, I’m always amazed at how much better I feel after some good stretching.
So 3 and 4 are going to be a bit of a two-for-one, in that you can do both of these things with none other than… that’s right, a planet fitness membership.
3. Red Light Therapy
But really, One of my favorite hacks for full body red light therapy is actually the Total Body Enhancement at Planet Fitness. This is an upright machine that you stand in and it gives 360 degree red light for your whole body.
This is a game changer for my mental health in winter because it truly feels like you’re basking in the sun or sitting on a beach even if it’s freezing outside.
I truly think it’s a hidden gem and well worth the black card membership – which in the grand scheme of gym memberships is very affordable.
NOTE: Make sure to wear eye protection! I got these goggles off of Amazon and they’ve been so helpful at protecting my eyes.
This two pack of protective goggles for red light therapy have come in handy! It’s perfect too because you’ll get one for you and one for a friend!
Plus you have the joy of looking like Jennifer Coolidge in A Cinderella Story and honestly, who doesn’t want that?
4. Hot Girl Walks
Just because it’s freezing outside doesn’t mean you have to skip your hot girl walks. Put that Planet Fitness Membership to good use and hop on a treadmill.
They also make bluetooth remote rings that you can wear so you can scroll on your phone while walking on the treadmill. I know it might sound silly, but it’s a nice way to pair something entertaining while you’re putting effort toward your health. There’s nothing like habit stacking your daily doom scrolling with your 10,000 step goal.
This viral ring lets you scroll on social media without having to touch the screen. It also doubles as a bluetooth camera remote!
5. Fascia Release
I like to build it into my routine.
Not only does this help with jaw tension and pain, it’s also super beneficial for lymphatic drainage. It’s can also provide huge aesthetic results which is a big reason why it’s on this list. From a budget-friendly aspect, it’s a whole lot cheaper than Botox.
(cue another Jennifer Coolidge impression)
Some great creators to follow are Anastasia of Beauty by Fascia, who transformed her face just through facial massage and teaches others how to do the same.
Other great resources are Devon Kelley and Sage Facial Tension Release.
Both of these creators talk about their journey with TMJ and how much facial massage has not only improved their pain, but also their appearance.
Sage has also released her own Gua Sha tool on her website.
Check out our post about TMJ pain relief for more effective ways to relief jaw pain naturally.
This post was all about how to beat the winter blues with affordable wellness habits.