Avoid the Post-Holiday Blues with These Suggestions

If you are anything like me, or most people I know, then the holidays are one of your favorite times of the year. Sure, the mall parking lot is extra full, but the look on people faces as they open their gifts makes it all worth it. Just being able to spend that little bit of extra time with your family is just what you need to combat the cold, wintry days, and if you're like me, then after December you can also succumb to a case of the Post Holiday Blues. So what to do when the wrapping in ripped, the carols are sung, and the kids have forgotten half the things they received? Here are some suggestions on what to do.

1. Enjoy a winter sport:

Although everyone might not be the world's greatest downhill skier, winter sports are a great way to avoid the dread that comes along with shoveling driveways and wiping off cars. It's not just skiing and snowboarding you're stuck to (as much fun as they can be). Find something that you enjoy, whether it be going down to the local ice skating rink and renting some skates every other week, or grabbing a cheap sled with some friends (or kids) and heading over to the biggest hill you can find, winter sports can help put some positive thoughts into your head when the flakes start falling from the sky.

2. Plan a mini getaway:

It doesn't have to be Florida or Hawaii to be a relaxing mental vacation. You can grab a hotel room a couple towns (or cities) over for a reasonable price. Make sure they have a pool, and things in the area you enjoy doing. Even if it's just a Friday or Saturday night, check into the hotel, see a show or grab some dinner at a local place. Head back to the hotel to do some swimming and relaxing. It might be cold outside, but it's nice, warm, and most importantly, different from home, inside. The new surroundings will add a nice change of pace to the everyday wear and tear that is life.

3. Can you say ' 3 day weekend?'

Bills to high from holiday shopping to afford a night away? Well then take a day off. Plan on it in advance, if you can get the vacation day, or plan for it mentally then use a sick day from work. Always take a Monday or Friday off, and plan to do absolutely nothing for at least one of the three days. Grab a book, zombie out in front of the TV, take a bath, just make sure it's not strenuous at all. This relaxation day can really help you feel refreshed and ready to live life again.

Trust me, I live in one of the biggest places for snow in the country, and the winter can really wear you out after a while if you don't take the necessary steps to prevent it. Would I rather be wearing shorts and a t-shirt on the beach? Sure, but a quick trip down the slopes isn't so bad either.