Overcoming the Winter Blues
Just because the temps are this low, doesn’t mean your attitude has to be!
From one Lumberjack to another, beat the winter blues with these #LumberjackTips — By Junior, Karringtan Bell
I’m now in my third year of college and just when I think I have everything figured out, I realize I still have a lot more to learn — especially when it comes to taking care of myself! College can be stressful at times (okay, a lot of the time😂) and if any of you are like me, you don’t like to take sick days. As college students we try our best to be healthy, but it can be hard — even more so during the winter months.
Being from California it was hard adapting to Flagstaff winters, there’s still plenty of sun but the colder temps takes some getting used to. Since I’ve been in Flagstaff I’ve been able to pick up a few tips along the way to help avoid getting hit by the winter blues!
Unfortunately, the temperatures here in Flagstaff are slowly dropping, which means we have to be prepared for the weather.
One of the most important things I have learned is to layer; layer until you cant layer anymore!
Flagstaff can be warm one minute and cold the next, sometimes even vice versa! I can forget how cold it can actually get here in Flagstaff — especially when the sun is keeping you warm, even during snow storms!
This is the time to reach deep into your closets and dust off your beanies, gloves, scarves, coats and whatever else you need to keep warm.
Trust me, you don’t want to be stuck walking home in those winds with no outer layer protection.
The next tip is completely easy to accomplish, easily found on campus, and almost trendy in Flagstaff.
Grab your hydroflask, reusable water bottle, or visit the free-campus filling stations, and DRINK MORE WATER!
Now I know what your thinking, water doesn’t get me through my 8am class, I’m more of a caffeine junkie! Listen, I feel your pain but drinking enough water everyday is important, especially being in an elevation of 7000ft.
Drinking the right amount of water can prevent headaches, loss of appetite, drowsiness and more.
Staying hydrated can also keep your immune system in check. Water is also known to keep your skin glowing so… yeah stay hydrated people!!!
Along with drinking water taking vitamins are a good way to keep your body happy.
Daily vitamin supplements are a good way to give your body the nutrients it might be missing from late night pizza!
I take daily women’s vitamins and I truly believe that they have prevented me form getting insanely sick. Vitamins C and D help boost your immune system during the winter months and can help keep you energized and ready to take on your classes. There are a ton of great vitamin options out there, here are some that can be easily incorporated into your daily routine.
It might be easier said than done but getting enough sleep is a way to make sure your giving your body the rest it needs.
The amount of sleep that is recommended is 8 hours.
If that doesn’t seem do-able with your schedule, gym time, friend obligations, and study sessions, you can always try and take naps in between classes for an extra boost of energy!
And always remember, at the end of the day it never hurts to just take a moment for yourself if you need it!
Going to school in the winter when it’s gloomy, cold and wet outside can be hard. The smallest things that relax you can make a big difference in how you feel.
Take a day to sleep in, if you’re falling asleep and not focusing in class that might be a sign that you need more sleep. An occasional day off for mental recharge never hurt anyone.
I hope some of these suggestions help you stay happy and healthy during the winter! Try to remember to make the most of the beautiful snow, quiet mornings, and serene landscapes. Here’s to counting down to spring!
Have a winter tip that helps you stay energized and in-the-zone? Share it with us at social@nau.edu to help your fellow Lumberjacks keep on kicking axe!
