Winter can be challenging, especially in cold climates where it’s snowy and icy. If winter blues impact your parents’ moods, or you’re finding yourself feeling down, embrace mood-boosting activities. Here are some of the best for improving mental and emotional health in the winter. 

Read an Uplifting Book 

When you’re down, a book that focuses on happiness and feel-good moments can make a difference. Some people find romantic comedies are great for boosting the mood, others like uplifting memoirs. You may find that a family cookbook with personal stories is better. Whatever appeals to you, pick it up and enjoy quiet time getting lost in it. 

Write in a Journal 

Take time each day to write about whatever you want. You might want to write about something that stresses you. Or, find a website that shares a daily writing prompt and write whatever comes to mind using that prompt. 

Learn to Paint 

Painting is a great way to release stress and feel great. If you don’t know how to paint, it doesn’t matter. Put on an instructional video for beginners and follow along. It doesn’t matter if your finished product isn’t perfect. What matters is that you’ve had fun. 

Work on a Jigsaw Puzzle 

Get out a puzzle and clear some room on the table. Put together a jigsaw. While you’re not doing anything physically strenuous, it’s a good workout for the brain. 

Complete a Zumba Workout 

A dance exercise like Zumba is a great way to get exercise and embrace a mood-boosting activity. The beat of the music improves your mood, and exercise boosts the hormones in your body that will enhance your mood. 

Volunteer Online 

Volunteering is a great way to boost your positivity. If you can’t get out of the house, there are still ways to volunteer. You’ll find many opportunities if you search “virtual volunteering.” 

For example, The Smithsonian Institute has an online volunteering program to view old documents and transcribe them. The Alzheimer’s Association looks for local advocates to write letters to politicians to gain support for dementia-related programs and bills. 

Is It Time to Focus on Your Self-Care? 

Could you use a break? If you’re a family caregiver and feel burned out, it’s time to talk about respite care. Elder care aides come to your parents’ home, help them with daily activities they cannot do on their own, and let you take a break. Call an elder care agency to make arrangements. 

If you or an aging loved-one are considering Elder Care in Summerlin , NV please contact the caring staff at Compassion Crest Home Care.