I don't know about you, but I struggle in the wintertime. Not only do I struggle because it's literally freezing outside, I also struggle with staying happy and motivated. It's actually quite common for people to feel more depressed this time of year. You're definitely not as active this time of year, and if you live where it snows, you're usually stuck inside. That's why I wanted to share my six tips to stay motivated this winter. These tips are things that have really helped me in the past, and I'm hoping that you'll help you too!

1. Stay Active

Staying active in the wintertime is not always the easiest, especially because it's freezing outside and there's usually snow on the ground. But there are plenty of workouts that you can do inside! Find a free workout video on YouTube, or maybe walk up and down the stairs in your house, or make up your own workout routine. Exercise releases a chemical in your brain called dopamine. It's basically a happiness chemical. It's a neurotransmitter in the brain that's necessary for feelings of happiness.

2. Eat Healthy

Eating healthy in the winter time can be tricky since not a lot of fruits and vegetables are in season. You can always find frozen fruits and veggies if certain fresh ones are not an option. Make sure you're getting plenty of protein and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Also, make sure that you're eating three meals a day!

3. Get Outside

As mentioned above, it's cold outside and nobody really wants to go outside. But getting outside is actually really good for a person. Getting outside and just breathing in the fresh air is really good. Maybe go for a walk? Maybe shovel the sidewalk? Try to get outside on a sunny day if possible. Sunshine has vitamin d, which is a happiness vitamin. So put on your layers, hats, gloves, and scarves, and get outside!

4. Get Cozy

Get in your comfy clothes, make some coffee, grab some blankets, and get a good movie on! This is the perfect way to relax and just have some time to yourself.

5. Start A New Hobby Or Goal

Find something that will keep you busy this winter, so you're not busy thinking about how cold it is. Maybe start knitting and make scarves? Or maybe start designing for your own store? That's what's going to help keep me busy this winter, I'll be busy designing items for my Etsy shop. It's just good to have something that you can look forward to working on and something that you really enjoy doing.

6. Make Plans

Go grab a coffee with your friends! Or check out the mall for some sales. Getting out and being with people that care about you and that you care about, is really good. We as humans need to spend time with people. And your plans don't have to be anything fancy or expensive, just as long as your getting out of the house and spending time with someone doing something.

Those are my six tips to stay motivated this winter. I hope that these tips help you all out this winter, in fighting the wintertime blues!