Beating the Winter Blues as a Remote Worker
Between cold weather, lack of sunshine, and dwindling desire to go outside, the winter season can be tough for everyone. Some groups, such as those working from home, can be particularly vulnerable to feelings of increased isolation, sadness, and a lack of purpose. Follow along for our advice on how to beat a winter slump as a remote worker.
- Enjoy some Sunshine
- While it may be tempting to stay curled up on the couch, tapping away at your keyboard, going outside for a walk or sitting near a window and enjoying some sunshine is essential to beating a winter slump. A daily boost of vitamin D provided by sunlight can increase mood, energy levels, and even reinforce your immune system! If the temptation of your couch is too much to handle at home, try working outside for part of your day or working at a coworking space. Coworking spaces such as Apt CoWork often provide areas filled with natural light, and the following locations even have outdoor workspaces:
- Sunshine lamps can also be helpful in boosting vitamin D production and improving mood, we recommend the Dalty Light Therapy Lamp from Amazon. This lamp can be used wherever you need it, whether it be a coworking space or your desk at home!
- Get Some Exercise
- Absorbing sunshine isn’t the only benefit you can receive by walking around outside or standing by the window. Activities that increase blood flow, such as exercise or standing while working, cause your body to release endorphins. Endorphins are chemicals that translate to feelings of wellbeing, reduced stress, and even reduced pain. If going for a run or a walk in the cold isn’t your thing, find an Apt CoWork space near you that features sit/stand desks so that you can choose how you want to work!
- Socialize
- Humans are social animals at the most basic level, and feelings of isolation during winter are oftentimes caused by a lack of human interaction. Winter weather can prevent many favorite social activities, and traveling long distances to see friends or family can be burdensome. While not a total substitute for hanging out with family or friends, working around others close to home can help minimize feelings of isolation and beat that winter slump. This is another huge advantage of Apt CoWork coworking spaces, as you have the choice of working around others or working alone when you need to focus. Having this option can be essential to maintaining good work-life balance and a positive mindset during winter.
Winter can be a tough time of the year, especially for remote workers. Enjoying some sunshine, getting some exercise, and socializing with others can be essential to a better mood and therefore a better winter. If coworking is how you’d like to beat your winter slump, feel free to stop by any Apt CoWork location today for a tour or sign up at Aptcowork.com.
If you’re having an especially tough winter and nothing seems to help, please see NIHM’s resources for additional help.