My Happy Light is one of the ways I get ahead of seasonal depression.

It’s that time of year…darkness comes earlier, the days are shorter, and if you’re like me, you feel like you sometimes just want to hibernate like a bear and sleep the entire winter away.

But, since I’ve been around the block a few times and am committed to living a healthier emotional lifestyle, I’m trying to get ahead of what can be seasonal depression. Some of the things in my tool kit include:

Turning on my “Happy Light”–it gives me more light on dreary days–especially now that I work at home much more.

Setting up dates with family and friends–especially those who bring me joy and those I haven’t gotten the chance to see. Making an appointment now gives me something to look forward to–and decreases my chances of canceling.

Getting some healthy food in–I joined a new Facebook group and I’m loving the recipes being shared. I’m challenging myself to try a new one each week–all ingredients are whole and unprocessed–a lifestyle I’ve wanted to embrace for a while…so I’m doing it this year. I feel more energy already.

Exercising–my goal is my favorite Zumba classes–3 times a week with weights–and when I can’t make those classes, plug into my favorite home videos. (Got to have a backup plan…because stuff happens). But, I am trying to protect those hours I know I want to dance with my zumba pals at the gym–and I’m trying very hard not to schedule anything during those times. I just can’t be depressed when grooving to Uptown Funk and Worth It all while pretending I’m a real dancer!

Playlist–Speaking of Uptown Funk, I will also create a playlist of songs that get me moving and smiling–if only for a minute. I need these to be readily accessible.

Books–I’m also stocking up on a list of “want to read” books. My Kindle is loaded–and I’ve even put a few books on hold at the library.

Prayer–I’m trying to be more consistent with my prayer life…you know you can get iton a rut and rattle off some prayers as you get moving quickly into the day. I want to spend a few more intentional minutes praying for the concerns on my heart and my family and friends. Prayer brings me much needed peace–and I’m going to covet that time with God just like I do my Zumba schedule.

What about you? What are you doing to get ahead of S.A.D. and make this winter an enjoyable season?