Stuck in a Utah February Funk? Here's How to Beat the Late Winter Blues

Alright, Utah, let's be honest – February can be tough. The holiday cheer is long gone, the novelty of snow has worn off, and the inversion... well, it's doing its thing. If you're feeling a bit "blah" right now, you're not alone. But don't worry, we've got some strategies to help you shake off that February funk and get your mojo back.

Why the February Funk Hits So Hard Short days, cold temps, and limited sunshine can mess with your mood and energy levels. Plus, after the excitement of the holidays and New Year's resolutions, February can feel like one long, gray Monday.

10 Ways to Beat the Late Winter Blues (Utah Edition)

1. Embrace the Inversion Escape Sometimes, you gotta rise above it (literally).

Try this: Plan a day trip up one of the canyons. The sunshine above the inversion can do wonders for your mood. Snowshoe at Solitude or just drive up to Guardsman Pass for the view.

1. Get Your Green Fix Surrounding yourself with living things can boost your mood.

Try this: Visit Red Butte Garden's Orangerie or the Butterfly Exhibit at Thanksgiving Point. Or start an indoor herb garden – fresh basil in February feels like a small miracle.

1. Move Your Body (Even When Your Couch is Calling) Exercise releases feel-good chemicals in your brain.

Try this: Join a indoor rock climbing gym, take a dance class, or try hot yoga. The warmth alone might make you forget it's winter.

1. Plan Your Summer Adventure Having something to look forward to can lift your spirits.

Try this: Start planning your summer camping trips or that weekend getaway to Moab. Bonus: Booking early often means better deals.

1. Light Up Your Life Light therapy can help combat the effects of shorter days.

Try this: Invest in a SAD lamp and use it for 20-30 minutes each morning. Or rearrange your space to maximize natural light.

1. Connect with Your Tribe Social connection is crucial for mental health, especially in winter.

Try this: Start a weekly game night or join a book club. The Salt Lake City Library hosts several if you need ideas.

1. Try Something New Novel experiences can jolt you out of a rut.

Try this: Take a cooking class, try axe throwing, or learn to knit. Anything that breaks up your routine can help.

1. Get Your Vitamin D Low vitamin D levels can impact your mood, and it's common in winter.

Try this: Talk to your doctor about vitamin D supplements. Or better yet, plan a weekend trip to St. George for some natural sunshine.

1. Cozy Up Your Space Make your home a haven from the winter blues.

Try this: Add some warm lighting, soft textures, and maybe a few new plants. Create a space that makes you feel good.

1. Practice Gratitude (Without the Eye Roll) Focusing on the positive can shift your perspective.

Try this: Each day, note one good thing that happened. It could be as simple as "great hair day" or "delicious hot chocolate."

Bonus Tip: Seek Professional Help If Needed If your funk feels more like depression, don't hesitate to reach out for help.

Try this: Talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is real, and there are treatments available.

Remember, February might feel long, but spring is just around the corner. In the meantime, be kind to yourself. Small efforts can make a big difference in how you feel.

[Call to Action: Struggling to shake the winter blues? Let's talk it out. Schedule a session and we'll work together to find strategies that help you not just survive, but thrive this winter.]