Beating the Winter Blues Naturally

As winter settles in with its shorter days and colder nights, it’s easy to fall into a sluggish routine. But instead of hibernating until spring, let’s embrace the season with nourishing food, movement, and meaningful connection. If you’re feeling the winter blues creeping in, here are some ways to boost your energy, support your body, and lift your spirit—plus an invitation to gather with us at ArtSparx on February 7th!

Fuel Your Body with Mood-Boosting Foods

What we eat directly affects how we feel, and in winter, it’s especially important to load up on whole foods that support energy and mental clarity.

Root Vegetables & Whole Grains – Sweet potatoes, squash, and beets provide slow-burning energy, keeping blood sugar stable and preventing those afternoon crashes. Quinoa, brown rice, and farro add fiber and keep you full and satisfied.

Leafy Greens & Fermented Foods – Dark leafy greens like kale and spinach are packed with magnesium and folate, which help regulate mood. Pair them with probiotic-rich fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, or pickled onions (one of my personal favorites!) to promote gut health, which is closely linked to mental well-being.

Omega-3 Rich Foods – Salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds contain omega-3 fatty acids that combat inflammation and support brain function—key for staying sharp and happy in the colder months.

Vitamin C & Zinc for Immunity – Oranges, lemons, ginger, and turmeric help keep your immune system strong, while pumpkin seeds and lentils provide zinc, another essential winter nutrient.

Warm, Comforting Drinks – Herbal teas, bone broth, and golden milk (a blend of turmeric, warm milk, and honey) are great ways to stay hydrated and comforted without excess caffeine or sugar.

Move Your Body & Get Outside

While it’s tempting to curl up inside all winter, staying active is one of the best ways to beat the blues.

Take a Walk in the Fresh Air – Even on the chilliest days, a brisk walk boosts circulation and helps clear the mind. Bundle up and soak in some natural light—it does wonders for your mood.

Stretch, Dance, or Try Yoga – Gentle movement like yoga or stretching keeps the body limber, while dancing around your kitchen (yes, I do this often!) can instantly lift your spirits.

Winter Adventures – If you enjoy winter sports, take advantage of the season! Skiing, snowshoeing, or even a simple sledding day can bring joy and fresh air into your life.

Build Community & Feed Your Soul

One of the most powerful ways to stay energized through winter is by gathering with others.

Join Us at ArtSparx on February 7th! – If you need a creative boost, come to ArtSparx, a night of art, conversation, and connection at The Gallery at Bex. Surrounding yourself with creative energy and good company is a perfect way to shake off the winter blues!

Share a Meal – Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home with loved ones or attending a community event, breaking bread with others brings warmth to the season.

Practice Gratitude & Kindness – A handwritten note, a phone call to a friend, or a simple act of kindness can brighten both your day and someone else’s.

Winter doesn’t have to be a season of isolation or low energy. With nourishing foods, mindful movement, and a strong sense of community, we can embrace this time of year and keep our spirits high. I’d love to see you at ArtSparx on February 7th—let’s beat the winter blues together!

Stay warm and well,
Chef Becky